Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Whipped cream, for garnish

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

When I first decided to make chocolate mousse with strawberries, I wanted a dessert that was both indulgent and refreshing. The combination of rich chocolate paired with the sweet, juicy strawberries creates a delightful balance. Over the years, I've perfected this recipe, ensuring that each spoonful is incredibly creamy and satisfying. It’s become a favorite for gatherings, where it never fails to impress. In just a short amount of time, you can whip up this elegant dessert and add a touch of luxury to any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:29:37.900Z

I remember the first time I shared this chocolate mousse with my friends. The rich, velvety texture combined with the freshness of strawberries was a hit. One tip I learned along the way is to let the mousse chill for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the creamy consistency, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Using high-quality chocolate is essential; it elevates the overall taste of the mousse. I've experimented with different types, and dark chocolate brings out an incredible depth of flavor. Pairing it with sliced strawberries not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of fruity sweetness
Silky smooth texture that is surprisingly easy to make
Perfect for special occasions or casual get-togethers

      

Mastering the Mousse Technique

Achieving the perfect chocolate mousse starts with the chocolate melting technique. When melting chocolate over a double boiler, ensure that the water is simmering gently rather than boiling vigorously, which can cause the chocolate to seize. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy, then allow it to cool slightly before adding the egg yolks. If you're using chocolate chips or bars, dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content offers the best flavor and richness for a decadent mousse.

The key to a successful mousse lies in whipping the egg whites to the right consistency. You want to beat them until they form stiff peaks, which will add the necessary volume and lightness to the mousse. If your bowl or whisk is even slightly oily or damp, this can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly, so ensure everything is impeccably clean. If you struggle with this step, consider using a stand mixer for consistent results while you prepare the other components.

Perfecting Your Flavor Balance

Selecting the right cocoa intensity in your chocolate is essential for achieving the desired flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter mousse, you can substitute a portion of the dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate. This not only provides additional sweetness but also creates a complex flavor that complements the tartness of the strawberries. Experimenting with different chocolate brands can also yield varying results, so it's worthwhile to try a few until you find your perfect match.

The addition of whipped cream lightens the mousse while providing a luxurious mouthfeel. Make sure not to over-whip the cream; it should be smooth and billowy. Folding the whipped cream gently into the chocolate mixture is crucial—this retains the airiness without deflating the mousse. If you prefer a richer mousse, you can use crème fraîche instead of heavy cream, which adds a slight tang and enhances the overall depth of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Whipped cream, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

Combine Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Stir the egg yolks into the cooled chocolate. Gently fold in the whipped cream, followed by the egg whites.

Chill

Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Serve

Top with sliced strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate mousse with fresh strawberries!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of liqueur to the chocolate mixture for added flavor.

Storage Tips

Chocolate mousse can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient dessert for gatherings. Once the mousse has set for at least one hour in the refrigerator, it can be stored covered for up to two days. However, the strawberries should be sliced and added just before serving to avoid them becoming mushy, which can compromise the visual appeal and texture of your dessert.

If you're looking to upscale or portion the mousse for individual servings, consider using small jars or cups. This not only makes for an elegant presentation but allows for easy transport if you're bringing dessert to a gathering. You can also prepare the mousse in advance and layer it with strawberries in the jars for an eye-catching dessert that requires no additional assembly at the event.

Variations to Consider

For a delightful twist on the classic chocolate mousse, consider incorporating flavors such as espresso or orange zest. Adding one tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the melted chocolate will deepen the chocolate flavor and give it a sophisticated edge. Likewise, a teaspoon of orange zest folded into the mousse before chilling can provide a refreshing citrus note that complements the rich chocolate beautifully.

You might also experiment with different fruit toppings beyond strawberries. Raspberries or blueberries can add a pop of color and a tart contrast to the rich mousse. For an upscale touch, consider drizzling some homemade raspberry coulis over the mousse before serving for added flavor and elegance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will result in a sweeter mousse.

→ How long can I store the mousse in the fridge?

You can store it for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

→ Can I make this mousse dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available.