Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate; 50g milk chocolate; 200g cream cheese, softened; 100g powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Highlighted under: Sweet Comfort Classics

I absolutely love creating desserts that not only look beautiful but also taste divine, and the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert is the perfect example! As I prepare this treat, I get excited imagining the delighted expressions on my friends' faces when they take their first bite. The soft chocolate cups filled with luscious cream and ripe strawberries are simply irresistible. This dessert is great for parties or special gatherings, and I can’t wait to share my twist on this Dubai classic with you!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:46:11.265Z

Making the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert was a delightful experience. I remember the first time I attempted it; the chocolate cups were a little tricky to mold, but the results were worth it! Using high-quality chocolate made a significant difference in flavor, and ensuring they were chilled properly helped them hold their shape.

While preparing the luscious filling, I discovered that a splash of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. I’ve found that preparing these in advance allows the flavors to meld perfectly, making them even more delicious for my guests!

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Elegant presentation that impresses guests
Versatile and easy to customize with different fillings

Achieving Perfect Chocolate Cups

To create the chocolate cups, it's essential to temper the chocolate properly. Overheating can lead to a dull finish and unappealing texture. When melting the chocolate, aim for a temperature between 45°C to 50°C (113°F to 122°F). Stir gently as it melts until you achieve a smooth and glossy consistency. This ensures a beautiful sheen that adds to the dessert's elegance.

After brushing the melted chocolate in the muffin tins, make sure to let the first layer set in the fridge for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps create a sturdy base for the cups. When applying the second layer, make sure the first is fully firm to prevent mixing or breaking. Aim for a thickness of about 3-4 mm for added durability without sacrificing the lightness of the cup.

Crafting the Creamy Filling

The cream cheese filling is what makes this dessert indulgent. Using softened cream cheese is crucial; it mixes more easily and results in a smooth filling. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds to soften it, but be careful not to melt it.

Incorporating the strawberries into your cream cheese mixture requires a gentle touch. Fold the sliced strawberries in carefully to maintain their shape and ensure even distribution. This not only adds freshness and color to your filling but also a juicy burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cups

200g dark chocolate
50g milk chocolate

For the Filling

200g cream cheese, softened
100g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Make sure to choose good quality chocolates for the best flavor!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark and milk chocolate. Melt gently over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Using a pastry brush, coat the inside of mini muffin cups with melted chocolate. Allow the first layer to set in the fridge, then apply another layer and set again.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the chocolate cups have fully set, remove them from the muffin tin. Fill each cup with the cream cheese mixture and top with a strawberry slice.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the assembled cups for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!

These can be made a day in advance for easier party planning.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality strawberries for optimal flavor and freshness. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate strawberry cups can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver for busy hosts. You can prepare the chocolate cups a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature; just make sure they are completely set before you store them. However, the cream cheese filling should be made fresh for maximum flavor and creaminess. If you prefer to prepare that in advance, make sure to keep it refrigerated until just before serving.

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to two days. Note that while the flavor will remain delicious, the strawberries may lose some of their texture over time. To revive their freshness, consider sprinkling a bit of lemon juice on top just before serving.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! For a twist, consider using whipped mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter, airier taste. You might also incorporate other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, which can complement the chocolate beautifully. For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a splash of liqueur, such as orange or coffee, to the chocolate for a unique depth.

Don't hesitate to change the chocolate types based on your preferences. If you're craving a sweeter cup, use milk chocolate exclusively, or mix in some white chocolate for a delightful contrast. This versatility opens up a range of possibilities to tailor this dessert to your liking—perfect for different occasions!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate can be used, but the flavor will be quite different. Make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

→ How long can I store these desserts?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but I recommend consuming them within 24 hours for the best texture.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or even whipped cream for a lighter filling, but the texture will vary.

→ What can I serve these with?

They pair beautifully with a glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing fruit punch.