Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional); Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Desserts Made Easy

I absolutely love creating fun and delicious desserts, especially when they combine rich chocolate with fresh strawberries. These Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups are a perfect way to impress my guests while indulging my sweet tooth. The combination of velvety chocolate mousse layered with juicy strawberry slices makes for an irresistible treat. They're not only simple to make but also look beautiful when served in clear cups, allowing all those vibrant colors to shine through. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that surely makes any gathering feel special.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:01:36.348Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups, I was amazed by how quickly everything came together. I wanted a dessert that could be prepared without the fuss, and this recipe delivered. The layering process is not only beautiful but also a lot of fun, especially when letting my kids help out.

One key tip I discovered is to use high-quality chocolate for the mousse; it truly elevates the flavor. I also love how the freshness of strawberries brightens the rich chocolate, resulting in a balanced dessert. Whenever I serve these cups, they disappear faster than I can say 'dessert!'

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of chocolate mousse and fresh strawberries
Visually stunning dessert that’s easy to make
A crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion

Chocolate Mousse Mastery

The key to a luscious chocolate mousse lies in the melting process of the chocolate. Be cautious when melting the chocolate chips; using a microwave requires short bursts of heat—about 30 seconds each—to prevent overheating, which can lead to a gritty texture. Stir in between intervals until the chocolate is glossy and fully melted. Allow it to cool to room temperature before incorporating it into the whipped cream; this prevents the mousse from collapsing.

Whipping the heavy cream to the right consistency is another essential step. When you whip the cream, look for medium peaks, which form when the cream is thickened but still holds a slight curve at the tip of the whisk. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can lead to a butter-like texture. Gently folding the cooled chocolate into the whipped cream is crucial for maintaining the airy structure of the mousse, creating a delightful lightness.

Assembly Tips for Stunning Presentation

Assembling the Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups can be both fun and artistic. Use clear cups to showcase the vibrant layers, and consider varying the sizes of the cups for a more visually appealing display. Start with a generous layer of mousse at the bottom, pack it in slightly to ensure it’s stable, and follow with a layer of strawberries. Angle the slices against the cup’s inner walls for an elegant look and to maximize visibility of the contrasting colors.

Once filled to the top, the final layer of mousse should cover the strawberries completely. I often use a spatula to create smooth, attractive surfaces. If you're feeling creative, consider layering in some crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs between the chocolate and strawberries for added texture and flavor contrast. These simple additions can elevate the dessert from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse:

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Prepare all the ingredients before you start assembling the cups.

Instructions

Make the Chocolate Mousse

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Allow to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until medium peaks form. Gently fold the cooled chocolate into the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Cups

In clear cups, add a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the process until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of mousse on top.

Garnish and Serve

Top each cup with mint leaves and chocolate shavings for an extra touch. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Feel free to get creative with the layering!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, you can substitute the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries. Consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mousse for an adult version. These cups can also be prepared a day in advance for easy entertaining.

Ingredient Substitutions

While semi-sweet chocolate chips offer a classic flavor for the mousse, dark or even white chocolate can be used to varying effects. Dark chocolate will intensify the richness, while white chocolate provides a sweeter, creamier profile. If you're avoiding dairy, consider using dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream for a vegan twist, which can yield surprisingly delicious results without compromising texture.

Strawberries are at the heart of this dessert, but feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits. Ripe raspberries or sliced kiwis can add vibrant colors and unique flavors. If strawberries are out of season, consider using freeze-dried strawberries for a crunchy, flavorful alternative that provides an interesting texture contrast while keeping the essence of fruit in your dessert.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Strawberry Party Cups are perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can make the chocolate mousse a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator; it will thicken even more as it chills, enhancing the flavor. To prevent oxidation and maintain the strawberries’ freshness, slice them right before assembly. This ensures the strawberries retain their texture and don’t release excess moisture, which could make the mousse soggy.

If you have leftovers (which seems unlikely!), cover the cups tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best flavor and texture experience, I recommend consuming them within a day to enjoy that delightful contrast of creamy mousse and fresh fruit at its finest.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the chocolate mousse ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mousse a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to assemble the cups.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the mousse?

Using semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best for a rich flavor, but feel free to use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.

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

Assembled cups can be kept refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping or a dairy-free alternative, but the texture may vary slightly.