Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 300ml heavy cream; 50g powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g strawberries, hulled and halved; Whipped cream; Chocolate shavings; Mint leaves

Highlighted under: Golden Oven Sweets

I’ve always been captivated by the vibrant flavors and extravagant presentations that come from Dubai. When I decided to recreate a dessert reminiscent of those lavish parties, the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup was born. This dessert features rich chocolate mousse paired with juicy strawberries, elegantly served in delightful cups. It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply a sweet indulgence to impress your guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite truly unforgettable!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:22:07.521Z

When I first tasted a chocolate-strawberry dessert in Dubai, it was a revelation. The balance of luscious chocolate and the refreshing burst of strawberries melted together in a way I had never experienced before. After some experimentation, I was thrilled to create my own version that I could share with friends and family.

One of my favorite tips is to use high-quality chocolate for the mousse. It truly makes a difference in flavor. Also, let the dessert chill in the fridge for a couple of hours to enhance the flavors even more. This perfect cooling time allows the layers to set beautifully!

        Why You'll Love This Dessert
        Decadent chocolate mousse layer that's rich and creamy
Fresh strawberries add a delightful fruitiness
Stunning presentation makes it ideal for parties

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality dark chocolate is crucial for achieving a rich and decadent chocolate mousse. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content; it not only enhances the flavor but also provides a silky texture that complements the cream beautifully. Cheaper chocolates often contain fillers that can detract from the final product. I always opt for brands that I trust to ensure the best possible outcome for my desserts.

The strawberries in this recipe should be fresh and ripe, as they're a key component of the overall flavor. If possible, purchase them from a local farmer’s market, as they tend to be sweeter than supermarket-bought ones. Choose strawberries that are vibrant in color without any bruises or soft spots; this ensures not only taste but also an appealing presentation.

Mastering the Mousse Technique

When melting the chocolate, use a double boiler method to prevent burning. The water should be at a gentle simmer, and you should only be heating the chocolate slowly. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy; this typically takes about 3-5 minutes. If you notice any graininess, it may have overheated, so try to control your heat to avoid this common pitfall.

Folding the melted chocolate into the whipped cream is a delicate process and is key to achieving the right mousse consistency. Use a rubber spatula to carefully scoop from the bottom and lift the mixture over itself, turning the bowl as you go. This motion helps maintain the airy texture. Over-mixing can lead to a denser mousse, so it’s best to stop once you see no streaks of chocolate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious cups.

Ingredients for Mousse and Topping

200g dark chocolate, chopped
300ml heavy cream
50g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
250g strawberries, hulled and halved

For Garnish

Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Mint leaves

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create this delightful dessert.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your wonderful dessert layers.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Combine Mousse

Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.

Assemble Cups

Spoon the chocolate mousse into dessert cups. Top with halved strawberries, then repeat layers as desired.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and mint leaves right before serving.

These steps will guide you to create a beautiful and tasty dessert!

Pro Tips

For a luxurious touch, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the mousse for extra flavor. You can also swap strawberries for other berries to suit your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These chocolate strawberry cups can be made a day in advance, which makes them an excellent choice for parties. Simply refrigerate the assembled cups for up to 24 hours before serving. Be sure to garnish with whipped cream and mint leaves just prior to serving to maintain their freshness and visual appeal.

If you have extra mousse, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, it’s best consumed fresh, as the texture may change slightly over time. If you prefer, you could also freeze it for a longer storage option, but be aware that freezing may alter the texture.

Serving Variations and Customizations

For a delightful twist, consider adding layers of crushed cookies or nuts between the mousse and strawberries. Crushed graham crackers or almond flour can introduce a new texture and flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate and strawberries. You can also experiment with flavored whipped creams, such as vanilla bean or even a hint of orange zest, for an extra layer of complexity.

If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for the mousse. This will still deliver a creamy texture while cutting down on fat. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste, as yogurt can add a tangy element that may require additional powdered sugar.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the mousse will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.

→ How long can I store the dessert?

It is best consumed within 2 days when kept refrigerated, but can last up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mousse the day before and assemble the dessert just before serving.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate for a delicious dairy-free version.