Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; Whipped cream; Additional strawberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Comfort Classics

I adore creating desserts that combine flavor and elegance, and these Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups perfectly fit the bill. The rich chocolate and fresh strawberries are a match made in heaven, and I can't resist how easy they are to prepare. Each layer of creamy mousse delivers a delightful texture, while the strawberries add a refreshing twist. Whether it’s a dinner party or a quiet evening at home, I know this dessert will impress. Trust me, it’s worth every minute spent whisking and layering!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:37:36.933Z

When I first decided to make these Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups, I had no idea how amazed my guests would be. I remember the first time I served it; the contrasting flavors and textures captivated everyone at the table. The light, airy mousse pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a delightful harmony.

One essential tip I discovered is to use high-quality chocolate for the mousse. It elevates the entire dessert, making each bite richer and more satisfying. Plus, layering the ingredients in clear cups lets the vibrant colors shine through, making the dessert visually stunning!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Lighter texture that melts in your mouth
Visually stunning presentation for any occasion

The Role of Chocolate

When choosing chocolate for this mousse, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This ensures a rich flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. If you're a fan of a less intense chocolate profile, consider using semi-sweet chocolate as an alternative. However, be mindful that this might alter the final taste slightly, leaning more towards sweetness than depth.

Melt the chocolate carefully, either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between to prevent burning. It should become glossy and smooth; let it cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream, as introducing warm chocolate can deflate the whipped cream, ruining that light, airy texture we desire in a mousse.

Making the Perfect Mousse

Achieving the right consistency in your mousse involves careful whipping of the heavy cream. Whip until soft peaks form, which will allow the mousse to maintain its lightness. If overwhipped, the cream can become grainy and may lead to a dense texture in the final product. It's best to stop whipping once you see soft peaks that gently bend over when the whisk is lifted.

When folding the melted chocolate into the whipped cream, use a spatula and employ gentle folding motions to maintain as much air as possible. This technique is key for that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Avoid vigorous mixing, which can deflate the cream and result in a mousse that lacks fluffiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the most decadent yet simple Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups:

Mousse Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Strawberry Layer

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

For Garnish

Whipped cream
Additional strawberries

With these delicious ingredients, you're ready to impress!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Mousse

Melt the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until soft peaks form. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until fully combined.

Layer the Cups

In serving cups, add a layer of chocolate mousse followed by a layer of the sugared strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with mousse on top.

Garnish and Chill

Top each cup with whipped cream and a fresh strawberry. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to firm up the mousse.

Now you're ready to enjoy these delightful Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top just before serving.

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just ensure they are covered with plastic wrap to keep them fresh, and prevent any odors from seeping in. When ready to serve, simply add the garnishes right before enjoying them to maintain the whip's texture and the strawberries' vibrant look.

If you're planning to store the assembled cups, resist the urge to add the whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top until you’re ready to serve. This ensures that the presentation stays beautiful, and the garnishes remain fresh and inviting.

Serving Variations

For an elegant touch, consider sprinkling shaved chocolate or cacao nibs on top of the mousse before serving. This adds an extra layer of texture and chocolatey flavor, enhancing each spoonful. If you want a more vibrant presentation, a dollop of berry coulis drizzled around the base can elevate the visual appeal and provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the mousse.

Feel free to experiment with other fruits as well. Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries can create a delightful variation. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile and tartness that can complement the rich chocolate beautifully, while still delivering that wow factor for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but be aware that milk chocolate will make the mousse sweeter and may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long can I store the mousse cups?

You can store the mousse cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they're best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate for a delicious dairy-free version.

→ What can I substitute for strawberries?

Berries like raspberries or blueberries can be used as a tasty alternative in this recipe.