Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 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; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries, as it's an elegant yet simple dessert perfect for any occasion. The rich and creamy texture melts in your mouth, while the fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness and color. I've found that using high-quality chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor and consistency. Each time I whip this up, it's met with delight and satisfaction from my family and friends, making it one of my go-to recipes for entertaining.

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:33:31.231Z

When I first attempted to make Chocolate Mousse, I was amazed by how easily the ingredients came together to create something so decadent. I learned that beating the egg whites to soft peaks gives the mousse its airy texture. The first time I paired it with strawberries, I was blown away by how their freshness complemented the rich chocolate—creating a harmony of flavors that was simply irresistible.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different ratios and techniques, and I’ve found that folding in whipped cream gently preserves the volume. One unique tip I’d like to share is to serve the mousse in individual cups topped with extra strawberries and a sprig of mint—this not only looks stunning but also elevates the overall dining experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent and creamy chocolate flavor complemented by fresh strawberries
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for parties and special occasions
An impressive dessert that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Mousse

The key to achieving a beautifully creamy chocolate mousse lies in the quality of your chocolate. Opt for a high cocoa content dark chocolate, ideally between 70% to 85%. This not only provides a more intense flavor but also helps the mousse maintain its structure. When melting the chocolate, watch closely as it can seize if overheated. A gentle simmer of water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water directly, will keep it glossy and smooth.

When separating the eggs, make sure there are no traces of yolk in the whites. Any fat can prevent them from whipping properly. For best results, I recommend using room temperature eggs; they whip up more easily. Also, clean your mixing bowl and whisk thoroughly to avoid residual grease that could inhibit the egg whites from reaching stiff peaks.

Achieving the Right Consistency

The folding technique is crucial in this recipe. After whipping the cream to soft peaks, add the melted chocolate in small batches, folding gently and effectively to maintain airiness. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites in three stages, being careful not to deflate the mixture. The goal is a light and airy mousse that has a smooth texture without any lumps or clumps of chocolate or egg.

Once you’ve combined all ingredients, it’s essential to chill the mousse properly. It should set for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, but if time allows, letting it rest overnight yields an even richer flavor. When ready to serve, run a small spatula or knife around the edge of the serving cups for a clean release of the mousse.

Ingredients for Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

For the Mousse

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

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate to enhance the mousse's flavor.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Combine Ingredients

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gradually fold in the melted chocolate, and then gently fold in the egg whites in batches until fully incorporated.

Chill and Serve

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

For added flair, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce on top before serving.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

This chocolate mousse can be made a day in advance, making it an ideal dessert for entertaining. Just keep it covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing odors. Serve chilled, and it will maintain its rich texture. If you do have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, though the texture is best enjoyed within the first couple of days.

If you wish to make this dessert ahead for a gathering, consider preparing the mousse, then layering it with fresh sliced strawberries in a parfait glass. This not only looks visually stunning but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they sit together.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this mousse is delightful as is, feel free to get creative with the presentation. Beyond strawberries, consider using fruits like raspberries or cherries for a tangy contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel can elevate the experience, adding depth to the chocolate flavor. Additionally, you could add a hint of orange zest to the melted chocolate for a citrus twist that complements the richness beautifully.

If you're looking for a lighter version, try substituting part of the heavy cream with whipped Greek yogurt. This can reduce the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture. Alternatively, for a vegan version, replace the eggs with aquafaba (chickpea water) and use a plant-based cream—just ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the mousse will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.

→ How long can I store the mousse?

The mousse can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, although it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ Is it necessary to use raw eggs?

If you're concerned about consuming raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs instead.