Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups

Name: Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup espresso, cooled; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

I absolutely adore creating elegant desserts that not only look beautiful but also tantalize the taste buds. These Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups are a perfect indulgence, combining rich coffee flavor with luscious strawberries. The chocolate and mocha mousse is incredibly smooth, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cups are a delightful treat. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the harmony of flavors in each layer.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:11:31.492Z

When I first made these Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups, I was amazed by how well the flavors complemented each other. I experimented with different layers, and the combination of chocolate mousse with the espresso didn't just elevate the dessert; it took it to another level. I recommend using fresh strawberries for an added burst of flavor and freshness that enhances the entire experience.

Each layer is simple to prepare, yet it feels indulgent and gourmet. I found that letting the layers chill separately allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which is a tip I’d love to share. Patience pays off when it comes to these delightful cups that are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

        Why You Will Love These Cups
        Rich espresso flavor paired with sweet strawberries
Smooth and creamy chocolate mousse that delights
Stunning presentation perfect for any occasion
A delightful blend of textures and flavors

      

Understanding the Chocolate Mousse

The chocolate mousse serves as the luxurious base for these Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups. It’s crucial to melt the dark chocolate slowly over low heat to prevent it from seizing up. If you find your chocolate is too thick after melting, you can warm it gently in the microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches a smooth consistency. The combination of heavy cream and espresso creates a rich, decadent mousse that beautifully harmonizes with the strawberry layer.

When whipping the heavy cream, it’s important to monitor the consistency closely. Aim for soft peaks, which should gently hold their shape and not become too stiff. If overwhipped, the cream can become grainy and lose its luxurious texture. A trick I use is to place the mixing bowl in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before whipping; this helps maintain optimal temperature while ensuring the cream is fluffy and light.

Perfecting the Strawberry Layer

The strawberry layer adds freshness and a vibrant contrast to the rich chocolate mousse. When macerating the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, let them sit for at least 10 minutes. This process enhances their natural sweetness while allowing the juices to pool, creating a syrupy mixture that enriches each bite. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can purée a portion of the macerated strawberries and mix it back in for added depth.

Choosing the right strawberries is key to elevating this dessert. Look for ripe, fragrant strawberries without blemishes. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones; just thaw and drain them before mixing with sugar and lemon. This versatile layer can also be swapped with other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, which will offer a slightly different flavor yet still complement the mocha beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Mocha Strawberry Cups:

For the Chocolate Mousse

1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup espresso, cooled
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

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

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your decadent dessert:

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a saucepan, melt the dark chocolate over low heat. Once melted, let it cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

Gently fold the chocolate, cooled espresso, sugar, and vanilla into the whipped cream until combined.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes until the strawberries release their juices.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chocolate mousse first, followed by a generous layer of the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full, finishing with the strawberry layer on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set. Serve chilled, garnished with a fresh strawberry on top.

Enjoy the perfect blend of chocolate and strawberry flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with whipped cream or drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Mocha Strawberry Cups are an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once assembled, they can be refrigerated for up to two days without compromising flavor or texture. Just be sure to cover them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent any contamination from other odors in the fridge. If you prefer a firmer chocolate mousse, chill the cups overnight; the longer setting time enhances the mousse's creaminess and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

You can also prepare the chocolate mousse and strawberry layer separately ahead of time. Store the mousse in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and the macerated strawberries for two days. When ready to serve, simply layer them in your cups for a fresh, impressive dessert presentation.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups, consider garnishing with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the visual appeal. You could also drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top for extra indulgence, which provides a beautiful contrast against the vibrant strawberries.

Another idea is to pair each cup with a little side of whipped cream flavored with a touch of vanilla or coffee for added creaminess. This adds a delightful texture and complements the rich flavors in the cups. These simple accompaniments can take your dessert from beautiful to extraordinary!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to serve!

→ What can I use instead of espresso?

You can use strong brewed coffee or even instant coffee granules dissolved in warm water if you prefer.

→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you want a different flavor profile.

→ How long will these cups last in the fridge?

They are best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness, although they can be stored for up to 3 days.