Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 50g sugar; 200ml heavy cream; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Extra strawberries, halved; Mint leaves

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore creating desserts that are not only delicious but also visually stunning, and these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses fit the bill perfectly. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries never fails to impress, making this treat a favorite for gatherings or indulgent nights in. As I layer the creamy chocolate mousse and vibrant strawberry puree, I can't help but smile at how effortlessly elegant they look. These desserts are not just about flavor; they're a feast for the eyes, too!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:37:35.810Z

When I first approached this dessert, I wanted to showcase the beauty of fresh strawberries alongside luscious chocolate. After experimentation, I found that using a light and airy mousse allowed the strawberries to shine through, both in flavor and appearance. Staying true to the classic combination, I decided to balance richness with brightness by layering them in elegant glasses.

One tip I discovered while preparing these glasses is to use high-quality chocolate for the mousse. This not only enhances the depth of flavor but also adds a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberries. Trust me, this small detail makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love These Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses
Decadent layers of rich chocolate mousse soften with fresh strawberries
Beautifully presented for an impressive touch at any occasion
Quick prep time makes these a go-to for last-minute guests

The Art of Layering

Layering is at the heart of the Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses, and mastering this technique is key for an appealing presentation. Start with the chocolate mousse; it should be glossy and airy, which indicates that you correctly folded in the whipped cream and egg whites. When adding the strawberry puree, aim for a vibrant color contrast against the chocolate. Use a spoon to gently dollop the puree on top of the mousse layer without disturbing it too much, creating defined layers that will look stunning when the glasses are served.

To ensure distinct layers, it helps to chill the mousse slightly before assembling. This provides it with enough structure, allowing it to hold up against the wetness of the strawberry puree. If the mousse is too warm, it may blend with the puree, resulting in a muddled appearance. Layering can be a fun and creative process; don’t hesitate to tilt the glasses for different angles of presentation, showcasing those beautiful layers even more!

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Ingredient quality significantly impacts the final taste of your dessert. Use a high-fat content dark chocolate, preferably at least 70% cocoa, for a rich, deep flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Chocolate with lower cocoa percentages can lead to a cloyingly sweet mousse that overshadows the fresh fruit. For the strawberries, selecting ripe, in-season berries is crucial. They should be fragrant and slightly yielding to the touch, as this ensures they'll contribute both flavor and a natural sweetness to your puree.

If you aim for a lower-sugar version of the dessert, consider using a sugar alternative in the mousse and puree. However, make sure whichever alternative you use can withstand the cooking process without altering the texture significantly. Coconut sugar can work well in place of regular sugar, imparting a subtle caramel note that pairs beautifully with chocolate, while honey can enhance the fruitiness of your strawberries in the puree.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Glasses are perfect for make-ahead preparation, which is ideal for entertaining. The chocolate mousse can be made a day prior; simply cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and the mousse to set beautifully. However, it's best to wait until the day of serving to make the strawberry puree. Freshness is key to maintaining the vibrant flavor and color of the strawberries, ensuring that your dessert remains visually appealing.

When it’s time to serve, assembling the glasses can be done in about 15 minutes, but remember to refrigerate them for at least 15 minutes after assembling to let the flavors marry. If you have prepared too many desserts, these can last in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure to keep a layer of plastic wrap on top to prevent the mousse from drying out. If you want to add an extra touch, consider incorporating a dollop of whipped cream on the top layer right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful dessert glasses:

For Chocolate Mousse:

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
50g sugar
200ml heavy cream

For Strawberry Puree:

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnish:

Extra strawberries, halved
Mint leaves

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your dessert glasses:

Prepare Chocolate Mousse:

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale. Gradually add the melted chocolate to the yolk mixture. In another bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form and gently fold it into the chocolate mixture. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and carefully fold them into the mousse until fully combined.

Make Strawberry Puree:

In a blender, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and strain through a fine sieve if you prefer a smoother texture.

Assemble Dessert Glasses:

Spoon a layer of chocolate mousse into the bottom of each glass, followed by a layer of strawberry puree. Repeat the process until the glasses are filled, ending with a layer of mousse on top.

Garnish and Serve:

Top each glass with a few halved strawberries and a mint leaf for a fresh finish. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider sprinkling some crushed cookies or nuts between the layers for texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful serving idea, consider pairing each dessert glass with a small chocolate-dipped strawberry. This not only complements the dessert visually but also provides an additional chocolatey bite that guests will love. You can easily make these by melting a bit of chocolate and dipping halved strawberries, allowing them to cool on wax paper until the chocolate sets.

If you want to elevate the experience even further, think about serving the dessert glasses on a decorative platter lined with fresh mint leaves. This adds a pop of color while enhancing the freshness of the flavors and aroma, making each bite feel luxurious and special.

Common Pitfalls

One common issue when making chocolate mousse is not allowing the chocolate to cool enough before mixing it with the egg yolks. If the chocolate is too hot, it can scramble the yolks. Always let the melted chocolate cool slightly before combining; it should be warm, not hot. Use a kitchen thermometer if you have one – aiming for around 110°F (43°C) is a safe guideline.

Another pitfall is overcrowding the glasses with too much mousse or puree, which can compromise the texture and layering. Stick to about one-third mousse and two-thirds puree in each glass to allow for a perfect balance of flavors while ensuring each layer stands out distinctly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before blending.

→ How long can I store the dessert glasses?

These dessert glasses can be kept in the fridge for up to two days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the mousse?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free chocolate.