Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 300ml heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large egg whites; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Crushed graham crackers (optional); Fresh strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups; they are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with fresh strawberries. It’s the perfect no-bake dessert for gatherings, and I enjoy how easy it is to whip them up. The layers of creamy chocolate mousse and tangy strawberry compote come together beautifully, providing a taste sensation everyone will adore. Plus, it's a wonderful way to showcase fresh strawberries, especially during the summer months. Trust me, these cups will impress your guests!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:57:36.008Z

When I first crafted these Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups, I was aiming for a dessert that married simplicity with elegance. The combination of smooth chocolate mousse and the fresh zing of strawberries creates a wonderful contrast that pleases the palate. During my many attempts, I discovered that letting the mousse chill for just the right amount of time enhances its texture, making each spoonful a delight.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to use high-quality chocolate. This little detail elevates the flavor of the mousse significantly, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying. Layering the compote and mousse not only makes it visually stunning but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully together. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!

Why You'll Love These Cups
Decadent chocolate richness complemented by juicy strawberries
No-bake simplicity makes preparation a breeze
Perfect presentation for special occasions or casual desserts

Perfecting the Chocolate Mousse

To achieve a silky chocolate mousse, ensure your dark chocolate is melted gently using a double boiler, maintaining a low simmer to avoid seizing. Stir it constantly until it's fully melted and glossy. If chocolate does seize due to excess heat, try adding a small amount of warm cream to bring it back to a smooth consistency. Once combined with whipped cream and egg whites, the mousse should have a light, airy texture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain airiness for a fluffy finish.

When whipping the heavy cream, it’s crucial to stop when soft peaks form, which typically takes 2-3 minutes on medium-high speed. Be cautious not to over-whip, as this can turn the cream grainy. A chilled mixing bowl enhances this process, helping to stabilize the whipped cream. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, particularly the chocolate, will significantly impact the flavor of your mousse, turning it rich and decadent.

Crafting the Strawberry Compote

For the strawberry compote, use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. The sugar and lemon juice not only sweeten but also enhance the natural tartness of the berries, creating a harmonious balance. Stir the mixture occasionally as it cooks over medium heat, allowing the strawberries to break down and develop a sauce-like consistency. If the compote becomes too thick, a splash of water or additional lemon juice can help loosen it. Allow it to cool completely before layering it with mousse, as warm ingredients can melt the mousse if assembled too early.

This compote is versatile; if strawberries are out of season, substitutes like raspberries or blueberries work well, maintaining the tart-sweet profile. Additionally, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh mint for a gourmet twist, enhancing the flavor diversity in your dessert. Store any leftover compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, perfect for drizzling over pancakes or yogurt.

Serving and Storage Tips

The Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups are not just visually appealing but are also quite flexible. For a more rustic presentation, consider using mason jars instead of traditional glasses. This not only adds charm to your dessert but also makes for easy transport if you're taking them to a gathering. I often prepare these cups ahead of time, allowing them to chill overnight; this helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures a firmer mousse when served.

To maintain the freshness of your layered cups, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, it's best to freeze the mousse alone without the strawberries, as the texture of the compote might change upon thawing. Thaw the mousse in the refrigerator before serving, and layer in the compote just before indulging for the best texture and flavor experience.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for a seamless preparation experience:

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
300ml heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large egg whites

For the Strawberry Compote

300g fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Assembly

Crushed graham crackers (optional)
Fresh strawberries for garnish

Make sure to check that all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dessert:

Prepare the Strawberry Compote

In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the strawberries soften. Remove from heat and let cool.

Make the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate in a bowl over simmering water, stirring constantly. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream, and then fold in the egg whites until just combined.

Assemble the Cups

In serving glasses or cups, add a layer of crushed graham crackers if desired, followed by a layer of chocolate mousse, then a layer of strawberry compote. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries on top.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coffee or espresso to the chocolate mousse mixture. This enhances the chocolate taste remarkably without overpowering the overall dessert.

Alternative Garnishes and Accompaniments

While fresh strawberries are the classic garnishing choice, consider drizzling some chocolate ganache or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of elegance. Shaved chocolate or chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds can also add delightful crunch while enhancing the visual flair of the cups. Additionally, a sprinkle of coarse sea salt over the top can elevate the flavor profile, balancing the sweetness with a hint of savory.

For a more indulgent experience, serve these cups with a side of chocolate-dipped fruits. Sliced bananas or even marshmallows can be delightful companions, encouraging guests to build their own dessert creations right at the table.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up for larger gatherings is quite simple. For every additional three servings, increase the quantities of chocolate, cream, and strawberries while keeping the ratios consistent. For example, if you want to serve twelve instead of six, simply multiply the mousse ingredients by two, which ensures each cup remains perfectly layered and balanced without compromising flavor.

Conversely, if you're looking to make fewer portions, these cups can easily be halved. Make sure to adjust the vessel size accordingly—smaller cups will allow for multiple servings without feeling wasteful. This flexibility makes the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups an ever-reliable dessert choice for any occasion.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate mousse turns out grainy, it’s likely due to overheating the chocolate. To fix this, warm, but do not boil, the chocolate again with a bit of cream and stir until it smooths out. Allow it to cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream and egg whites to ensure it doesn’t melt the mixture. Another common issue is the mousse not setting properly; this can happen if ingredients are not chilled adequately or if overmixing occurred. Always ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks to provide structure.

If your strawberry compote is too runny, you can thicken it by simmering it longer. Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) to the mixture while it simmers—just a teaspoon at a time, which will help it achieve that desired consistency without altering the flavor significantly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can! However, the flavor will be sweeter and less intense, so adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How long can I store these cups?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan chocolate for the mousse.

→ What's the best way to whip egg whites?

Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry. Room temperature egg whites whip better and faster.