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: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Treats from the Oven

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups for gatherings and special occasions. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress. Plus, they are incredibly easy to assemble, making them a go-to dessert in my kitchen. With the sheer simplicity of layering a creamy chocolate mousse with sliced strawberries, these cups deliver a perfect taste of indulgence. I'm excited to share this recipe with you because I guarantee it will leave everyone wanting more!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:33:36.011Z

Creating these Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups was a delightful experience for me. I wanted to find a dessert that was both visually appealing and delicious, and these cups hit the mark perfectly. I experimented with different layers and settled on a creamy chocolate mousse that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Assembling them was the best part—just layer the mousse and strawberries in clear cups for a stunning presentation. I recommend selecting ripe strawberries for maximum flavor. Trust me, this dessert is a showstopper!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
An irresistible combination of chocolate and fresh strawberries
Light and creamy texture paired with fruity sweetness
Impressive presentation that’s perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate and butter together over simmering water, stirring constantly to avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. The ideal temperature for melting chocolate is around 115°F (46°C). Once melted, let the mixture cool just slightly before incorporating it with the egg yolks; this helps maintain the light texture of the mousse. When folding the whipped cream into the chocolate, do so gently to preserve the airiness that makes the mousse light and creamy.

Using high-quality dark chocolate significantly enhances the flavor of your mousse. Look for chocolate with a cocoa percentage between 60% and 70% for the best balance between bitterness and sweetness. If you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor, semi-sweet chocolate can be used, but adjust the sugar amount in the recipe to taste. Be aware that different brands may vary in sweetness and texture, so it's worth experimenting to find your favorite.

Working with Fresh Strawberries

When selecting strawberries for this recipe, look for firm, ripe berries that have a vibrant red color without any white or green spots. These will not only be sweeter but also provide a beautiful contrast to the rich chocolate. After hulling and slicing the strawberries, mix them with sugar to draw out their natural juices, allowing them to marinate for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances their flavor and creates a delicious syrup that seeps into the mousse layers, adding moisture and sweetness.

For a fun twist, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries. Keep in mind that some berries are sweeter than others; for example, blueberries might require less sugar. If you’re using frozen berries, thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid to avoid watering down your dessert layers.

Assembling and Storing the Cups

When assembling the cups, consider using clear glass containers to showcase the beautiful layers. Start with a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by a layer of strawberries, and repeat. The key is to ensure that the mousse is fully chilled and slightly set before adding strawberries to prevent them from sinking. This creates lovely distinct layers that are visually appealing and texturally interesting.

These chocolate strawberry layer cups can be made in advance, making them perfect for entertaining. Once assembled, cover the cups with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for best results, enjoy them within 24 hours to experience the freshest strawberry flavor. If you need to make the cups more than a day ahead, prepare the mousse a day in advance and layer it with the strawberries just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups.

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Layer

300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar

For Serving

Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start creating these delightful treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups.

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Fold the chocolate mixture into the egg yolks. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the chocolate mixture.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chocolate mousse and strawberries. Start with a layer of mousse, followed by strawberries, and repeat until the cups are full. Finish with strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups as a refreshing and indulgent dessert!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor in the mousse. Fresh and ripe strawberries will elevate the sweetness of the layers.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups can be elegantly garnished with sprigs of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder for added flair. Consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence. For a special occasion, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top right before serving to enhance the visual allure.

If you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of flavored liqueur, such as orange or raspberry, to the strawberry layer for a sophisticated twist. This will elevate the dessert's flavor profile and provide a delightful surprise for guests. Just be mindful of balancing the added sweetness that liqueurs can bring.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate seizes while melting, there’s a quick fix. Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or butter and mix gently until smooth. This helps salvage the chocolate mixture for your mousse. Also, be careful not to overbeat the whipped cream; if it becomes too stiff, it will not fold properly into the chocolate mixture, leading to a dense mousse instead of a light, airy texture.

In case your strawberries seem too tart, sprinkling a bit more sugar before letting them release their juices can enhance their sweetness significantly. Always taste them after the initial marinating time and adjust accordingly. This way, you can ensure a well-balanced flavor between the sweet chocolate mousse and the tart strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter, so you may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How long can I store the assembled cups in the fridge?

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mousse a day in advance and assemble the cups just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the mousse?

You may try using coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.