Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (chopped); 100ml heavy cream; 250g fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced); 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Whipped cream (optional); Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love whipping up these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups when I want a simple yet elegant treat. The rich chocolate and sweet strawberries create a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Each layer brings a new texture and flavor, making them a stunning addition to any gathering. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, so I never feel overwhelmed when I'm preparing them for friends or family. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, these cups always bring a smile to my face!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:09:35.643Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared! I used a combination of fresh strawberries and a rich chocolate ganache, layering them in elegant cups that looked as good as they tasted. I learned that letting the ganache cool slightly before assembling makes for easier layering, resulting in a stunning presentation and a delightful texture contrast.

During one dinner party, I paired these cups with a pinch of sea salt on top, which really elevated the flavor. My guests couldn’t stop raving about them! It’s the little tweaks, like that burst of saltiness, that transform an already delicious dessert into something truly memorable.

Why You'll Love These Dessert Cups!
Decadent chocolate combined with fresh strawberries
Elegant presentation that impresses every guest
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Ganache

The key to a smooth and glossy chocolate ganache lies in the temperature of your cream. When heating the heavy cream, aim to bring it just to a simmer—small bubbles will start to form around the edge of the bowl. If the cream boils, it can become too hot and may alter the final texture of your ganache. Stir continuously as you add the chocolate; this ensures that the heat is evenly distributed, resulting in a velvety finish that perfectly complements the strawberries.

After mixing the ganache, let it cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This cooling period is crucial; if you layer it while it’s too warm, it can cause the strawberries to release excess moisture, leading to a soggy base. The cooled ganache should be thick enough to hold its shape when layered but still spreadable for an elegant presentation.

Selecting and Preparing Strawberries

Using ripe, fresh strawberries will make all the difference in achieving a vibrant flavor profile. Look for berries that are bright red and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid any that have soft spots or appear dull, as these can affect the overall sweetness of your dessert cups. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with another berry, such as raspberries or blueberries, but do adjust the sugar accordingly since different fruits have varying sweetness levels.

When preparing the strawberries, hulled and sliced pieces mixed with sugar and vanilla extract not only enhances their taste but also creates a syrupy layer that seeps down to the ganache. Allow the strawberries to sit for at least 10 minutes; this resting time is essential for drawing out their juices and concentrating their natural flavors, resulting in a luscious, sweet-tart layer that perfectly balances the richness of the chocolate.

Assembling and Storing Your Dessert Cups

When assembling your dessert cups, consider using clear glass or acrylic containers to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberries. The visual appeal of the contrasting colors adds to the overall experience, making each cup a mini work of art. Start with about two tablespoons of ganache followed by a generous layer of strawberries—aim for even distribution to ensure every bite has a combo of both flavors.

If you want to prepare these cups ahead of time, they can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to add whipped cream just before serving. If you're looking to freeze the dessert cups, keep in mind that the strawberries will change texture, so it's better to freeze just the ganache and assemble the cups with fresh strawberries when ready to serve.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious dessert cups:

For the Chocolate Ganache

200g dark chocolate (chopped)
100ml heavy cream

For the Strawberries

250g fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Serving

Whipped cream (optional)
Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a beautiful dessert that everyone will love!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare these mouthwatering Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Cups:

Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and glossy. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and vanilla extract. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out their natural juices.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chocolate ganache and sweetened strawberries. Start with a layer of ganache, then a layer of strawberries, and repeat until you reach the top. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Chill the cups in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of grated chocolate or chopped nuts on top before serving for added flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the type of chocolate you use for the ganache. While dark chocolate offers a rich flavor, a milk or white chocolate ganache can create a sweeter dessert that might appeal to those with different palates. You can also add flavorings to the ganache, such as a splash of espresso or orange liqueur, to give it a unique twist that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream for serving. This gives a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional whipped cream. Additionally, incorporating a layer of granola or crushed nuts can add a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the smooth chocolate and juicy strawberries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ganache isn't coming together and remains grainy, it's likely due to the chocolate cooling too quickly or not being melted properly. A quick fix is to transfer your bowl to a gently heated water bath, stirring continuously until smooth. This technique helps to re-emulsify the mixture without overheating the chocolate, ensuring a silky texture.

If your strawberries turn out overly mushy after resting, try reducing the amount of sugar or shortening the maceration time to only 5 minutes. This will help retain their firmness, giving you a more pleasant texture in your dessert cups. Remember, fresh strawberries should hold their shape to provide the ideal contrast to the decadent chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the ganache sweeter.

→ How long can I store these dessert cups?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate and a non-dairy cream substitute to make a vegan version.

→ What other fruits can I incorporate?

Other berries like blueberries or raspberries work wonderfully, and bananas would also add a nice twist.