Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 2 tablespoons sugar; 300ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I can't resist the heavenly combination of rich chocolate mousse paired with fresh strawberries. When I first made this dessert for my friends, their reactions were priceless. The creamy texture and the burst of strawberry flavor created an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this recipe has become my go-to. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can impress anyone with this decadent treat that simply melts in your mouth.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:06:28.398Z

When I first embarked on the journey of making chocolate mousse, I was nervous about the technique. However, I quickly learned that the key is in gently folding the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture. This method ensures a light and airy texture that’s essential for a perfect mousse. After several trials, I finally nailed it and paired it with fresh strawberries, which balance the richness beautifully.

What surprised me the most was how the quality of chocolate affects the taste. Using high-quality dark chocolate truly elevates the flavor profile. I've experimented with different chocolate brands, and the richness is simply unmatched when you choose well. I love serving it in elegant glasses for a touch of sophistication!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by fresh strawberries
Silky smooth texture that is light yet satisfying
Perfect for impressing guests at any celebration

The Importance of High-Quality Chocolate

When making chocolate mousse, the quality of chocolate can significantly affect the final flavor and texture. Opt for a high-cocoa dark chocolate, ideally around 70% cocoa content, which will provide richness and depth to the mousse. Avoid baking chocolate with lower quality as it can result in a less flavorful dessert. The melting process should be done gently; heat too high can cause the chocolate to seize, so always use a double boiler method for best results.

Letting the melted chocolate cool slightly before mixing it with the egg yolks is crucial. If the chocolate is too hot, it can cook the yolks and create a grainy texture in your mousse. After introducing the chocolate to the egg yolks, you're aiming for a glossy mixture that should not resemble scrambled eggs. By ensuring this step is done correctly, you set the perfect foundation for a smooth mousse.

Techniques for Perfect Whipping

Whipping egg whites and cream are two essential steps that contribute to the light and airy texture of your mousse. For optimal results, ensure that there are no traces of yolk in the egg whites, as fat can prevent them from whipping properly. Use a clean glass or metal bowl for the egg whites; this makes a noticeable difference in achieving stiff peaks. Whip until soft peaks hold, but avoid overbeating, as this can lead to a dry texture.

When incorporating the whipped cream or egg whites into the chocolate mixture, use a gentle folding technique. This method ensures that you retain the airiness from whipping, creating a fluffy mousse. Fold using a spatula in a figure-eight motion rather than vigorous stirring, which can cause the mixture to deflate. The goal is to achieve a uniform blend without losing the light aspect of your mousse, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Ingredients

For the Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons sugar
300ml heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish

Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir gently until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Whisk Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and creamy. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.

Beat Egg Whites

In another bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture.

Whip the Cream

In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no streaks remain.

Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Top with fresh strawberries and mint leaves before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate mixture. It enhances the richness and pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation, serving your chocolate mousse in elegant glasses or jars adds a touch of sophistication. For a refreshing contrast, consider layering the mousse with fresh strawberries in parfait-style servings. This not only looks gorgeous but also allows guests to experience the delightful combination of flavors in every bite.

You can also experiment with toppings beyond strawberries; try adding a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or finely grated chocolate for added texture. For a festive look, a few mint leaves can elevate the dessert and provide a pop of color.

Make-Ahead Tips

Chocolate mousse is an excellent make-ahead dessert, as it requires chilling time in the refrigerator. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to tightly cover the mousse with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Keep in mind that mousse can lose some of its airy texture after sitting, so gently re-fold in a bit of whipped cream before serving again to restore some fluffiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

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

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

The mousse can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

→ Can I make this mousse without eggs?

Yes, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg substitute for a vegan version.

→ What can I serve with the mousse?

Creamy mascarpone cheese or a simple vanilla ice cream complement the mousse nicely.