Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 large eggs, separated; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I absolutely love creating desserts that combine rich flavors with delightful textures, and these Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups are no exception. The creamy chocolate mousse perfectly complements the fresh strawberries, creating a heavenly balance. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, I can whip up these indulgent treats for any occasion. Whether it's a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in, these mousse cups always leave a lasting impression and satisfy my sweet tooth!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-07T22:26:29.376Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups, I thought about how simple yet luxurious chocolate mousse can be. The key is to use high-quality chocolate; it really elevates the whole dessert. I also decided to layer the whipped strawberries, which gives a stunning visual effect and a fresh contrast to the rich chocolate. I’ll never forget the delight on my friends' faces when they first tried this dessert!

One tip I've learned is to let the mousse chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This way, the flavors meld beautifully, and the texture becomes incredibly silky. I love serving these cups topped with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or ribbons of fresh cream for an extra touch of elegance. Trust me; these will be a hit!

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

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cup lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich and deep flavor. This chocolate will melt beautifully, creating a smooth base that pairs wonderfully with the airy texture of the mousse. Using fresh, ripe strawberries is equally important, as they'll provide the bright fruitiness that balances the richness of the chocolate. Aim for strawberries that are vibrant red and fragrant to ensure maximum flavor in your puree.

When it comes to whipping the cream, be sure to chill your mixing bowl and beaters in advance. Cold tools help achieve that light and airy texture we all love in a mousse. I suggest using heavy cream with a fat content of at least 36%, as it whips up beautifully and forms stable peaks, crucial for the mousse's structure. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut cream can be a delightful substitute that offers a unique flavor twist.

Mousse Mastery Techniques

Achieving the perfect mousse consistency requires gentle handling of the whipped egg whites. When beating the egg whites, look for soft peaks that gently hold their shape. Avoid over-whipping, as this could make them dry and difficult to fold. When incorporating the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, use a rubber spatula and fold gently to maintain airiness; this is what gives the mousse its light texture. If you find the mixture deflating, you can add a small spoonful of the chocolate base to the egg whites first as a stabilizing step before combining them.

For an added layer of flavor, consider infusing your chocolate mousse with a spoonful of espresso powder or a splash of vanilla extract. These ingredients can elevate the chocolate notes and add depth without overpowering the strawberry layers. Remember to adjust the sugar accordingly if you add any sweetened ingredients, ensuring the balance between chocolate and strawberry remains harmonious throughout.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups:

For the Mousse

1 cup heavy cream
6 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup granulated sugar

For the Strawberry Layer

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Enjoy making this delicious dessert!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the mousse:

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Mousse Base

In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale. Add the melted chocolate and mix until combined.

Whip the Egg Whites

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the chocolate mixture.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold this into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a small bowl, mix the pureed strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Set aside.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chocolate mousse and strawberry puree. Repeat the layers until finished.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled mousse cups for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the mousse or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for gatherings. You can assemble the cups up to a day in advance. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge. The flavors deepen as they chill, so they are often even better after a night in the fridge. However, I recommend adding any garnishes, like whipped cream or fresh strawberries, just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

If you have leftover mousse, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid freezing the mousse, as the texture may change once thawed, but if you only have mousse left after serving, consider using it as a filling for pastries or as a decadent ice cream topping!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the visual appeal of your Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cups, consider serving them in clear glassware to showcase the beautiful layers. A simple garnish of strawberry slices and finely grated chocolate on top adds a touch of elegance. You could even drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top for a surprising tangy contrast that enhances the flavors.

For a variation on the traditional recipe, try incorporating different berries. Raspberries or blueberries can add a wonderful tartness and color that complements the chocolate nicely. Additionally, for those who enjoy a hint of warmth, a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of chili powder can enhance the richness of the chocolate and create an unexpected flavor experience that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will be sweeter and less rich than dark chocolate.

→ How long can I store the mousse cups?

The mousse cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best consumed fresh.

→ Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate as substitutes for a dairy-free version.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.