Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 50g sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Whipped cream (for topping); Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Sugar & Whisk

I love making Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses for a special occasion or just to treat myself on a lazy weekend. This dessert captures the essence of rich chocolate and the freshness of strawberries, creating a divine combination that’s hard to resist. With layers of creamy chocolate mousse and vibrant strawberries, every bite is a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Plus, they are easy to assemble and can be prepared in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the moment with friends and family.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:19:36.648Z

During my last dinner party, I decided to impress my guests with these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses. I prepared the chocolate mousse from scratch, using high-quality dark chocolate to elevate the flavor. The key was to let the mousse chill properly, which resulted in a beautifully smooth and airy texture. I topped the mousse with fresh strawberries just before serving, bringing everything together in a stunning presentation.

What I discovered is that allowing the dessert to rest overnight in the fridge not only intensifies the flavors but also allows for easy serving the next day. Each layer melds perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and decadence that leaves everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate paired with fresh strawberries for an indulgent treat
Beautifully layered presentation that's impressive yet simple to make
Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners

Understanding Chocolate Mousse

The foundation of this dessert lies in the chocolate mousse, which is both rich and airy. The quality of the dark chocolate you choose significantly impacts the overall flavor; I recommend using chocolate with at least 70% cacao for a deep, intense taste. When melting the chocolate, be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause it to seize. A gentle melt, either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, will ensure a smooth, glossy finish.

Incorporating the egg whites into the chocolate mixture is a delicate process that requires folding rather than stirring. This technique preserves the airiness of the whipped egg whites, resulting in a mousse that is light and fluffy. If you over-mix, you risk losing the volume, which is crucial for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Aim for a uniform color where no white streaks remain, signaling that it’s ready for the heavy cream.

The heavy cream serves as the final component in the mousse, adding richness and balancing the dense chocolate. Whip it to soft peaks—when you lift the whisk, the cream should hold its shape but still be smooth enough to blend easily. This creates a harmonious contrast against the dark chocolate. Remember, if you whip it too much, you’ll end up with butter, so keep an eye on the texture.

Strawberry Preparation Techniques

The maceration process is key to enhancing the flavor of the strawberries. By combining them with sugar and lemon juice, you're not only drawing out their natural juices, but also adding a tangy brightness that complements the richness of the chocolate. Allowing the strawberries to sit for at least 10 minutes is essential—it transforms them into a delicious topping that’s both juicy and sweet. Be sure to give them a gentle stir halfway through to ensure even coating.

Consider using different varieties of strawberries or even mixing in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for an exciting twist. Each berry will bring its unique flavor, adding depth to your dessert. If strawberries are out of season, thawed frozen berries work as an alternative, although you may want to adjust the sugar down since they're often sweeter than fresh ones.

To amplify the strawberries' presentation, try slicing them into varying sizes.Quartering some while leaving others whole creates visual interest in your dessert glasses. This layering of textures makes every spoonful unique, enhancing the overall eating experience. Plus, visually appealing dishes are always more enticing!

Assembly and Storage Tips

When assembling the dessert glasses, consider using clear glass containers; the beautiful layers of chocolate mousse and strawberries are part of the dessert's charm. Start with a generous dollop of mousse at the bottom, followed by a layer of strawberries, and repeat until your glasses are filled. This not only looks stunning but also ensures that each layer can be appreciated with every bite. Try to finish with the mousse on top for a clean, appealing finish.

If preparing in advance, these dessert glasses can be refrigerated for up to two days, making them great for meal prep or ahead of a gathering. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge. If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can wait to add the whipped cream and chocolate shavings until you’re ready to serve; this keeps them from getting soggy.

For those seeking variety, consider adding a layer of crushed cookies or a sprinkle of nuts between the layers for added texture. Just keep in mind that adding a dry component will absorb some moisture from the mousse, so serve it within a few hours for optimal crunch. Your guests will appreciate the unexpected twist on a classic dessert!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful dessert glasses:

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
3 large eggs, separated
50g sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Strawberries

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

For Assembly

Whipped cream (for topping)
Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Ensure you have everything ready to create these amazing dessert glasses!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses:

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave. Allow it to cool slightly. Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture carefully. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks, then fold it into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them macerate for about 10 minutes until juicy.

Assemble the Dessert Glasses

In serving glasses, layer the chocolate mousse and macerated strawberries. Start with a layer of mousse, followed by strawberries, then repeat. Finish each glass with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert glasses for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set. Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious treat!

Enjoy these delightful dessert glasses, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. You can substitute the strawberries with other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries for a twist!

Making It Your Own

Feel free to experiment with flavors in the mousse. A pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor, or you could infuse the cream with orange or mint for a refreshing twist. For a vegan option, use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to replace egg whites and a dairy-free cream alternative to achieve similar textures while maintaining richness.

If dietary restrictions are a concern, substitute the sugar with a preferred sweetener, such as agave or stevia, without compromising on the flavor. Just keep in mind, especially with stevia, to balance it carefully as its sweetness is often much stronger than regular sugar.

You can also customize the serving sizes to suit your occasion. If serving at a larger gathering, consider creating a trifle in a larger bowl instead of individual glasses. Just be sure to adjust the layers accordingly and serve it with a large scoop to ensure everyone can enjoy this decadent treat.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the chocolate mousse isn’t setting properly, it may be due to the temperatures of your ingredients. Ensure the chocolate is cool but not cold when adding it to the egg yolk mixture; too hot can cook the eggs. If the mousse is too soft, it might need more chilling time—overnight is ideal if you can manage it for a firmer consistency.

When whipping the cream, if it separates or curdles, that could indicate it was over-whipped. If this happens, you might salvage the cream by adding a tablespoon of fresh, unwhipped cream and gently folding it in to smooth it out. Always start with chilled cream and a cold bowl for the best results, making whipping easier.

Lastly, if your strawberry maceration isn’t yielding enough juice, try adding a bit more sugar or lemon juice to encourage the process. The goal is a syrupy mixture by the end of 10-15 minutes, which will create a beautifully flavorful layer in your dessert.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch of elegance, serve your Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses with a side of chocolate sauce for drizzling or extra clementine segments to enhance the flavor profile. Each guest can customize their dessert, making the experience interactive and personalized.

Consider pairing this dessert with a dessert wine or a light sparkling wine, which will complement the richness of the chocolate and the tartness of the strawberries. This will elevate the dining experience, creating a perfect ending to any meal.

Finally, these dessert glasses can be a wonderful base for a themed dessert table. Incorporate variations of fruits or gently spike the mousse with liqueurs like Grand Marnier or Chambord for adults, making them suitable for birthday parties or special anniversaries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mousse in advance?

Absolutely! The mousse can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You could use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping substitute, although the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

→ How long can I store the dessert glasses?

They are best enjoyed within 3 days of assembling, but you can store them covered in the refrigerator until then.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it's best to thaw them and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy dessert.