Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 eggs, separated; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations

I absolutely love creating desserts that feel indulgent yet are simple to prepare. Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups are my go-to treat for special occasions or just for a sweet escape. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries always delights my palate, and assembling these cups is so much fun! Each layer brings a new texture and taste, making it a sensory delight. Plus, they look stunning on the table, ready to impress family and friends!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:25:36.830Z

When I first experimented with Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups, I was surprised by how easy they were to make. Starting with a simple chocolate mousse, I learned that using high-quality chocolate elevates the flavor immensely. Pairing it with fresh strawberries made it even better, creating a beautiful balance of rich and refreshing in every bite.

I discovered that letting the mousse chill for just a bit allows it to firm up while still being creamy. This tiny tip makes a significant difference, as it adds structure to the dessert cups without losing that silky texture that I love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate perfectly complemented by juicy strawberries
Elegant presentation that impresses at any gathering
Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute dessert cravings

The Art of Chocolate Mousse

Creating a rich chocolate mousse is all about controlling the heat when melting chocolate. I recommend using a heatproof bowl that snugly fits over a saucepan. This creates a gentle steamer effect that prevents the chocolate from burning. Stir the chocolate until glossy and fully melted, then allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before incorporating it into your egg mixture. If the chocolate cools too much, it can seize when mixed with the eggs, leading to a grainy texture. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect silky smoothness.

Whipping the cream is another critical step in achieving a light and airy mousse. Be sure to use cold heavy cream for the best results; this ensures it can hold its shape when whipped. Aim for soft peaks, which means the cream should hold its shape but still gently fold into the chocolate mixture without deflating. Over-whipping can lead to a clumpy, butter-like texture, which we want to avoid, as it can ruin the delicate feel of your dessert.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

When assembling your dessert cups, remember that presentation matters as much as taste. Layering sliced strawberries with chocolate mousse not only creates visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile. As the strawberries are fresh and juicy, they provide a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate. For a twist, consider macerating the strawberries in a tablespoon of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar while you prepare the mousse; this will intensify their sweetness and add an exciting depth of flavor.

For texture variation, you can also incorporate crushed cookies or graham crackers between the mousse and strawberries. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy mousse and soft berries, creating a well-rounded dessert experience. However, if you're feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of whipped mascarpone or Greek yogurt for an extra tangy note, which works wonderfully with the sweetness of the chocolate and strawberries.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 eggs, separated
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Assembly

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Make the Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Fold the melted chocolate into the egg mixture. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the chocolate mixture.

Prepare the Cups

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain. Carefully spoon the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the mousse is set, layer the sliced strawberries on top. You can add more mousse if desired, then top with additional strawberries. Optionally garnish with mint leaves before serving.

Serve

Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mousse mixture for an added flavor depth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're short on time or want to plan ahead, the chocolate mousse can be made a day in advance. Simply store it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the dessert cups. Just be mindful not to layer the strawberries too early, as they can release moisture and turn mushy, potentially compromising the texture of the mousse.

When storing any leftovers, if you happen to have them, cover the dessert cups with plastic wrap to avoid absorption of odors from your fridge. The mousse and strawberries are best enjoyed within a day or two after assembly to maintain their optimal flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common hiccup when making mousse is if it doesn’t set properly. This can happen if the chocolate was added while still too warm and cooked the egg yolks. To prevent this, always let the chocolate cool slightly before mixing it with the eggs. If the mousse remains runny after chilling, you can gently re-whip the cream and fold it back in to aerate and thicken it up a bit more.

Another issue might be your layers starting to separate after assembly. This could be due to the strawberries releasing too much juice. If you plan on making this dessert a few hours in advance, toss the sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar to draw out excess moisture and let them drain before layering. This will help keep your dessert cups looking pristine and prevent sogginess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chocolate mousse a day ahead and assemble the cups just before serving.

→ What type of chocolate is best to use?

I recommend using dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a richer taste.

→ Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even bananas work wonderfully with this recipe.

→ Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, but for younger kids, you may wish to omit the egg yolks or use egg substitutes for safety.