Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries for any gathering. The way the rich, velvety chocolate combines with the fresh, juicy strawberries creates a delightful contrast that never fails to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, this dessert feels luxurious and indulgent while being surprisingly easy to prepare. I love how it can be made ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking for a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:33:32.833Z

Making this chocolate mousse has always been a special treat for me. I remember the first time I whipped it up; it felt like magic watching the chocolate transform into this luscious cream. I learned that gently folding the whipped cream into the melted chocolate is crucial to achieving the perfect airy texture. Each mouthful is an experience, thanks to that soft, rich chocolate flavor.

Adding strawberries not only enhances the taste but also makes it visually appealing. I love experimenting with the ratio of strawberries on top; sometimes I go for a more elaborate presentation, while other days simplicity is key. No matter how you serve it, the combination is heavenly and truly satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Mastering the Chocolate Mousse Technique

The secret to achieving a perfect chocolate mousse lies in the melting of the chocolate. When using a double boiler, make sure the water is gently simmering, not boiling, to prevent any water from splashing into the chocolate. Stir frequently until the chocolate is melted and smooth, and be cautious of overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. Cooling it slightly before adding other ingredients ensures that you don’t cook the egg yolks too quickly, maintaining a silky texture.

Folding is an essential technique in this recipe. When combining the whipped egg whites and other ingredients, use a spatula to gently lift and fold the mixtures together rather than stirring. This preserves the air you’ve incorporated into the egg whites, leading to a light and airy mousse. Be patient during this stage; it’s essential not to overmix, as that can deflate the mousse and lead to a denser texture.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Using high-quality dark chocolate is crucial for the flavor profile of this mousse. Aim for chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa for a rich, deep flavor. If you prefer a sweeter mousse, you can opt for semi-sweet chocolate but adjust the sugar in the recipe to your taste. For a dairy-free option, consider using a dark chocolate that is dairy-free and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream, which will add a subtle tropical flavor.

Eggs play a key role in both the structure and flavor of the mousse. If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can experiment with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) whipped to stiff peaks as a substitute for the egg whites. Keep in mind that the chocolate mixture may need to be slightly cooler when incorporating the aquafaba to prevent it from collapsing, so let it cool thoroughly before folding.

Storing and Serving Tips

This chocolate mousse is perfect for make-ahead dessert preparation. You can prepare it up to two days in advance, tightly covered in the refrigerator. Just before serving, it's best to garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves to maintain their freshness. If you're catering for a larger gathering, consider portioning the mousse into small cups or jars. This not only makes for an elegant presentation but also allows for individual servings that guests can easily enjoy.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the strawberries fresh, you might want to add them on top just before serving rather than storing them together with the mousse. This way, you can maintain the contrast of the creamy mousse with the juicy freshness of the strawberries, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish

Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves (optional)

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add half of the sugar and continue beating until glossy and stiff.

Prepare the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Combine Ingredients

Gently fold the egg yolks and remaining sugar into the cooled chocolate, followed by the whipped cream. Finally, fold in the beaten egg whites until just combined.

Chill and Serve

Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, top with sliced strawberries and mint leaves.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate mousse!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce on top before serving or use other berries like raspberries or blueberries as a garnish.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate mousse turns out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the whipped egg whites or cream. Ensure you fold gently and only until just combined. If you're unsure, it’s better to err on the side of under-mixing, as the mousse can still maintain a light texture.

Another common issue is the chocolate seizing. If your chocolate becomes grainy when melting, it might have been exposed to moisture. Make sure your bowls and utensils are completely dry. If this happens, you can try to rescue it by adding a small amount of vegetable oil or cream to the mixture to help smooth it out.

Flavor Variations

For a twist on the classic flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate as it melts. Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it. Alternatively, infuse your heavy cream with flavors like orange zest, vanilla bean, or even peppermint extract, allowing the cream to cool before whipping. This adds an exciting dimension to the mousse.

If you're feeling adventurous, layer the mousse with different flavors such as a fruit puree or a dash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a multi-dimensional dessert that surprises the palate with each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the mousse.

→ How long can I store the chocolate mousse?

The mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, but be cautious with raw eggs. You may opt for pasteurized eggs for safety.

→ Can I make this mousse vegan?

Yes, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites and vegan chocolate.