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; 300ml heavy cream; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

Whenever I need a quick and impressive dessert, I turn to these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups. The combination of rich chocolate and juicy strawberries creates a delightful treat that never fails to please. I particularly love how simple they are to put together, yet they look so elegant when served. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip up a delicious dessert that feels sophisticated and indulgent, making it perfect for any occasion or just a sweet treat at home.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:49:35.861Z

One day, while experimenting with dessert ideas for a friend's gathering, I stumbled upon this combination of chocolate and strawberries. I decided to layer them in cups to create a visually stunning treat. The rich chocolate mousse perfectly complements the fresh strawberries, and the presentation is sure to impress everyone!

During my trials, I learned that allowing the chocolate to cool slightly before combining it with the whipped cream gives the mousse a creamy texture that's not too runny. This small tip made all the difference in achieving the perfect dessert for any special occasion or simply a cozy night in.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of chocolate filling and fresh strawberries
Elegant presentation perfect for any occasion
Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients

Perfecting the Chocolate Mousse

To achieve a silky smooth chocolate mousse, quality chocolate is key. Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a richer flavor. When melting the chocolate, ensure the bowl does not touch the simmering water to prevent overheating. Stir gently until the chocolate is glossy, then allow it to cool to room temperature before folding it into the whipped cream. This ensures the mousse retains its airy texture, avoiding a dense outcome.

Whipping cream to soft peaks is crucial for the mousse's lightness. Be cautious not to over-whip, as it can result in a grainy texture. For best results, use chilled equipment—place the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes before whipping. The whipped cream should have a fluffy consistency that holds its shape but still folds easily with the chocolate mixture to create a smooth, airy dessert.

Assembly Tips for a Stunning Presentation

When assembling your dessert cups, use clear glassware to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberries. Consider using different cup sizes for varied presentations; smaller cups can create an elegant, mini-dessert option while larger ones offer a more generous serving. Use a piping bag for the chocolate mousse to create more defined layers and a cleaner look. Just be careful not to overfill the cups; leave a little space at the top to prevent spills.

Fresh strawberries are essential for both flavor and presentation. Choose ripe, sweet berries for the best taste—look for ones that are firm and deep red without any blemishes. If you're preparing ahead, keep the sliced strawberries in a small bowl, lightly coated with a pinch of sugar to enhance their sweetness while preventing them from turning mushy. This method also lends a nice syrupy glaze that adds moisture to each bite of the dessert.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
300ml heavy cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until smooth and allow it to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gradually fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until no streaks remain.

Assemble the Dessert Cups

In serving cups or small glasses, layer a spoonful of the chocolate mousse at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced strawberries, then repeat the layers until the cups are filled. Finish with a dollop of mousse and a strawberry on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 10 minutes to allow them to set. Serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mousse for an elevated taste that pairs beautifully with the strawberries!

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different types of fruits. Raspberries, blueberries, or even bananas can make for a delightful twist on the classic chocolate and strawberry pairing. Additionally, you could infuse the mousse with other flavors, such as adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a mocha mousse or a splash of orange liqueur for added depth.

If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using a combination of Greek yogurt and whipped cream instead of heavy cream for the mousse. This will give you a tangy flavor and slightly different texture while still maintaining a rich chocolate taste. For a vegan alternative, use coconut cream whipped with cocoa powder and maple syrup instead of dairy.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for entertaining. After assembling, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the strawberries may release juices, so it's best to assemble them closer to your serving time if you prefer them to remain pristine.

If you want to prepare the components separately, the mousse can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days and the strawberries can be hulled and sliced a few hours in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, layer them just before your guests arrive to ensure the dessert looks its best.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor, but this may result in a different texture.

→ How long can I store these dessert cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to consume them fresh.

→ Can I prepare the mousse in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the mousse a day ahead and assemble the cups just before serving.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a variety of flavors.