Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 5 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 large egg whites; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries); Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely adore creating desserts that not only taste divine but also look stunning. These Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups are a perfect fusion of creamy chocolate mousse and fresh strawberries, making them a decadent treat for any occasion. The layers not only offer a delightful contrast in flavors but also the visual appeal that will impress your guests. Trust me, each spoonful is like a bite of heaven, and they are surprisingly easy to whip up. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:41:36.258Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups, I wanted to bring something special to the table for a family gathering. The layers of chocolate mousse contrasted beautifully with the fresh strawberries, and I was so pleased with the end result. It’s always satisfying to see my loved ones enjoy something I’ve created.

One key tip I discovered during this process is to let the chocolate cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream. This ensures the mousse retains its lightness and doesn't collapse, resulting in the perfect airy texture. You'll love this dessert!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries
Elegant presentation that's perfect for entertaining
Light and airy mousse texture that melts in your mouth
Quick to make, yet looks impressive on any table

      

Understanding Chocolate Mousse

The key to a successful chocolate mousse lies in the consistency of the whipped cream and the egg whites. When whipping the cream, aim for soft peaks, which indicate that the cream has enough air incorporated to create a light texture while still being stable enough to hold its shape. When folding in the melted chocolate, use a gentle hand to maintain the airy structure you've achieved. This is crucial because overmixing can lead to a dense mousse that's far less enjoyable.

Dark chocolate quality is essential for flavor; I recommend using chocolate with at least 60% cacao for a rich taste that complements the strawberries beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using a semi-sweet chocolate, but keep in mind that the sweetness of the strawberries will contribute to the overall flavor profile, so balance is key.

Perfect Layering Techniques

When assembling the cups, layering is both an art and a science. Begin with a layer of chocolate mousse at the bottom to anchor the strawberries, which prevents them from sinking too deep. Aim for an even distribution of mousse and strawberries for a visually pleasing effect. If you use clear cups, the layered effect is accentuated, offering guests a glimpse of the deliciousness to come.

For added texture, consider incorporating a layer of crushed cookies or graham crackers between the mousse and strawberries. This can provide a delightful crunch, contrasting with the creamy mousse and juicy strawberries. Just remember to keep any additional ingredients thinly layered to maintain the structure of your cups.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings. Once assembled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, to prevent the moisture from the strawberries from making the mousse soggy, consider adding the strawberries just before serving if you are making them a day in advance.

For freezing, while the mousse itself can freeze well, the texture of the fresh strawberries won't hold up. If freezing is necessary, consider preparing just the mousse ahead of time and storing it in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and layer with fresh strawberries before serving. This way, you can always have a delightful treat ready to go!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

1 cup heavy cream
5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 large egg whites
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Layers

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)
Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

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

Make the Chocolate Mousse

In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy, then gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream, followed by the beaten egg whites. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chocolate mousse and the sugared strawberries, repeating the layers until the cups are filled. Finish with chocolate shavings on top for garnish.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the layer cups for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mousse or using a mix of berries for a colorful twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, swap out the heavy cream with coconut cream for a similar texture and rich flavor. It's essential to chill the coconut cream in the refrigerator overnight prior to whipping; this will help achieve those soft peaks. Additionally, ensure your dark chocolate is dairy-free to keep the dessert completely vegan-friendly.

For those wanting to cut back on sugar, you can replace the sugar in the strawberries with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Just be mindful of the sweetness levels, as they can vary significantly between brands; start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Variations for Seasonal Flavor

While the chocolate and strawberry combination is a classic, feel free to experiment with flavors. In the summer months, consider utilizing raspberries or blueberries for a fresh twist. Both berries lend a tartness that balances out the richness of the chocolate exceptionally well.

For a holiday-themed variation, consider infusing the mousse with peppermint extract, or add finely grated orange zest to the chocolate for a citrusy undertone. These small tweaks can enhance the flavor profile while still keeping the base of the recipe intact.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mousse doesn't set properly, it might be due to the ratio of chocolate to cream. Make sure your melted chocolate is sufficiently cool before folding it into the whipped cream; if it's too hot, it can deflate the mixture. If things go awry, chilling the mousse for an extra hour can sometimes help achieve the right consistency.

Another common pitfall is the strawberries becoming mushy if left too long in sugar. Always prepare the strawberries shortly before serving, or use them fresh to avoid excess moisture soaking into the mousse. This will also keep the presentation fresh and appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chocolate mousse up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the cups.

→ What type of chocolate works best?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich flavor. However, you can also use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

→ Can I substitute the strawberries?

Absolutely! You can use any fresh berries you like, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this recipe suitable for guests with dietary restrictions?

This dessert contains dairy and eggs, so it's not suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies. You could explore plant-based alternatives to create a vegan version.