Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Inspiration

I can't help but feel a rush of excitement every time I make these Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups. The combination of creamy chocolate and tangy strawberries creates a delightful balance that is simply irresistible. Each layer adds a new texture and flavor, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether it's a casual dinner with friends or a festive celebration, these cups never fail to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, so you can enjoy making them without any stress.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:41:35.827Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups, it was a spontaneous decision to use up some leftover strawberries. I layered them with a rich chocolate mousse that I whipped up in minutes. To my surprise, the kids adored the combination, and it quickly became a family favorite. The richness of the chocolate balances beautifully with the fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that feels lavish yet is entirely doable at home.

One tip I've learned is to let the mousse chill for at least 10 minutes before layering. This small detail ensures that the mousse holds its shape when you assemble your cups. Trust me, the texture makes all the difference in each delightful bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of rich chocolate and vibrant strawberries
No baking required, making it a quick and easy dessert option
Perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party

Understanding Chocolate Mousse

The key to a successful chocolate mousse lies in the technique of folding the ingredients together. After melting the chocolate, it's crucial to let it cool slightly before incorporating it into the whipped cream. If the chocolate is too hot, it can deflate the whipped cream, resulting in a dense mixture rather than the light, airy texture we desire. I recommend aiming for a temperature of around lukewarm, just enough to feel warm to the touch.

When whipping the cream, pay attention to the stages of incorporation. Stop whisking when soft peaks form, as overwhipping can turn the cream grainy. The mousse should have a rich yet fluffy consistency, which is ideal for layering. A good indicator is when the mix holds its shape but still has a bit of movement—this will create an inviting, creamy layer in your cups.

Layering Techniques

When assembling the layer cups, use clear glasses to showcase the striking layers of chocolate mousse and strawberries. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the eating experience, allowing guests to appreciate each layer as they dig in. Start with about two spoonfuls of mousse as the base—this provides a stable foundation for the strawberries, preventing them from sinking too low.

I often suggest using a pastry bag to layer the mousse more efficiently, especially if you're making these for a crowd. Simply fill a bag with the mousse and pipe it directly into the cups. You can alternate layers or create a spiral effect for added flair. Just ensure to end with mousse on top for a neat finish, which can then be garnished with freshly sliced strawberries or mint leaves.

Storing and Serving

Once your cups are assembled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you’re planning to serve them later, cover each cup with plastic wrap to prevent the whipped cream from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Just be mindful not to press the wrap directly onto the mousse layer to maintain its texture.

For a festive touch, consider serving these cups with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top. Both additions elevate the dessert and can add an extra texture dimension to the already delightful layers. If you're feeling adventurous, you might explore variations by incorporating different fruits like raspberries or bananas, which pair beautifully with chocolate.

Ingredients

For the best results, use fresh strawberries and high-quality chocolate.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Ensure all your ingredients are ready before you begin. This will streamline the process!

Make the Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.

Assemble the Layer Cups

In serving cups, alternate layers of chocolate mousse and sliced strawberries. Start with a layer of mousse, followed by strawberries, and repeat until your cups are filled, finishing with a mousse layer on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 10 minutes to allow the mousse to set slightly. Garnish with mint leaves if desired before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups chilled!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mousse.

Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in achieving the texture and flavor profile of the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cups. The heavy cream is pivotal; it provides the luxurious mouthfeel and volume when whipped. The ratio of cream to chocolate is crucial—too much chocolate can lead to a heavy mousse, while too little can result in a lack of chocolate flavor. A rich dark chocolate is preferable as it provides a pleasant contrast to the sweet strawberries.

The freshness of the strawberries cannot be understated. Their tanginess cuts through the richness of the mousse, making each bite balanced and refreshing. If fresh strawberries are not available, consider using frozen berries that have been thawed—but be sure to drain any excess liquid to maintain the integrity of the layers.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your mousse isn't setting properly, it could be due to the chocolate being too warm or not incorporating enough air during whipping. If your mousse appears too loose, try refrigerating it for longer, as this can help firm it up. You can also add a bit of gelatin (1 teaspoon dissolved in warm water) to the chocolate before folding if you're concerned about the mousse holding its shape, especially on a warm day.

Should you notice any graininess in your mousse, it’s likely from either the chocolate not being fully melted or from overwhipped cream. In the future, ensure you melt the chocolate slowly over low heat and continually whisk the cream until just soft peaks form to avoid this issue.

Making a Double Batch

If you're entertaining a larger group, consider doubling the ingredients while maintaining the same method. This mousse is versatile and can be made in advance, saving you time on the day of your event. Just increase the size of your mixing bowls and ensure you have enough cups for layering.

Remember to allow extra time in the refrigerator for the mousse to set, especially when increasing the quantity, as larger portions may take a bit longer to chill. Also, you may want to garnish each cup individually just before serving to preserve freshness and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter flavor.

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

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

→ Can I make these vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate to make it vegan.

→ What's the best way to serve these cups?

These are best served chilled, and you can garnish them right before serving for the freshest look.