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 large eggs, separated; 50g granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Studio

I absolutely love creating desserts that are not just delicious but also visually appealing. These Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups are my go-to for gatherings and special occasions. Each cup features a rich chocolate mousse layered with fresh strawberries, making a perfect blend of sweetness and acidity. The best part is how simple they are to make, yet they leave a lasting impression. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how quickly they disappear!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:05:36.050Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups, I was amazed at how quickly they came together and how they made my guests feel special. The decadent chocolate mousse paired with the freshness of strawberries creates a delightful harmony that’s simply irresistible. I recommend letting the mousse chill for at least an hour to achieve that perfect texture.

One essential tip I've learned is to use high-quality chocolate for the mousse. It truly makes a difference in taste and elevates this dessert to the next level. Trust me, the richer flavor is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Light and airy mousse that melts in your mouth
Perfect for impressing guests or a sweet treat at home

Mastering the Mousse

Creating a perfect chocolate mousse is all about technique. When melting the dark chocolate, aim for a gentle heat by placing the bowl over simmering water, stirring constantly until the chocolate is glossy and fully melted. This prevents the chocolate from seizing. If you accidentally overheat it, the chocolate can become gritty. To remedy this, adding a touch of vegetable oil can sometimes help smooth it out again, but be cautious as too much can alter the flavor.

When whipping the cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are cold; this helps achieve the desired soft peaks faster. Overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture, so keep a close eye. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture gently using a spatula, incorporating air for that light, airy texture. This is crucial for a mousse that melts in your mouth; too aggressive folding will deflate those precious air bubbles.

Strawberry Preparation Tips

The strawberries add a beautiful tartness that balances the rich chocolate, making their preparation equally important. After hulling and slicing them, toss them with sugar and lemon juice. This not only sweetens the strawberries but also draws out their juices, creating a lovely syrup that you can drizzle over the mousse. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to reach their full potential; this enhances their flavor and infuses the sugar and lemon into each slice.

For an elevated twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries. This unexpected addition deepens their flavor and adds complexity, making the dessert even more impressive. Just be sure to balance it well with the sugar so the strawberries remain sweet and inviting without overwhelming the mousse.

Ingredients

For the Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
50g granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Topping

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Directions

Make the Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold into the chocolate mixture. Finally, in a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, and gently fold them in.

Chill the Mousse

Spoon the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for at least one hour to set.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and let sit for about 10 minutes.

Serve

Top the chilled mousse with the prepared strawberries before serving. Enjoy your delicious dessert!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the mousse for a citrusy twist. You can also use other berries in place of strawberries to mix things up!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for entertaining. The mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Just be sure to cover each cup properly to maintain freshness. However, it's best to wait until just before serving to add the strawberry topping to keep them vibrant and juicy.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for another day. Just give the mousse a gentle stir before serving again, as it might slightly settle. The strawberries can be kept in the fridge for a day or two as well, but consume them quickly to retain their texture and flavor.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile of the mousse. A hint of espresso powder added to the melted chocolate intensifies its depth without overwhelming sweetness. For a fun twist, try infusing the cream with orange zest before whipping; it adds a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with both chocolate and strawberries.

Moreover, consider using other berries or fruits instead of strawberries. Raspberries or a mix of berries can offer a delightful contrast in flavor and color. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute full-fat coconut cream for the heavy cream; just ensure to chill it overnight so it can whip up nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Yes, the mousse can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

I recommend using at least 70% dark chocolate for a rich flavor, but you can adjust based on your personal preference.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use a non-dairy cream or coconut cream for a lighter version, though it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.