Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits; they’re an indulgent treat that never fails to impress! With layers of creamy chocolate mousse, fresh strawberries, and a hint of whipped cream, each parfait feels like a celebration in a glass. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a delightful snack after dinner. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, allowing me to whip up something elegant without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-13T13:14:06.718Z

I remember the first time I made Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits; I was hosting a small gathering and wanted to impress my guests with something simple yet decadent. After experimenting with different layers, I found the perfect balance of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. The contrast in textures is what makes these parfaits irresistible!

One of my favorite tips is to gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mousse to maintain its airy texture. This step really elevates the overall lightness of the dessert. Plus, using ripe strawberries brings an extra burst of flavor, making each spoonful a delightful experience!

        Why You'll Love Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits
        Layers of rich chocolate mousse and fresh strawberries create a perfect harmony of flavors.
The light, airy texture makes every bite feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
They're visually stunning, making them perfect for parties or special occasions.

      

Mastering Texture in Your Mousse

The key to a luxurious chocolate mousse lies in the way you handle the heavy cream. Whip it just until soft peaks form; over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture instead of the smooth, rich mouthfeel you want. Using a chilled bowl and beaters can help achieve those soft peaks faster, giving you more control over the final texture, which is crucial when folding in the melted chocolate.

In this recipe, the chocolate needs to cool slightly before being combined with the whipped cream. If it's too hot, it can deflate the whipped cream, compromising that airy lightness that defines a perfect mousse. Allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes until it's just warm to the touch, then gently fold it into the whipped cream. This technique ensures the mousse retains its volume and airy quality.

Choosing the Best Strawberries

Strawberries are the star of this parfait, so choosing juicy, fresh ones is essential. When selecting strawberries, look for plump, brightly colored fruits with a sweet aroma. Avoid any that are bruised or overly soft, as they won't hold their shape in the layers. If you're making these parfaits when strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess liquid.

You can also enhance the strawberry flavor with a touch of sweetness. Toss sliced strawberries with a bit of powdered sugar (about 1-2 teaspoons) and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out the juices and intensifies their flavor, ensuring that the strawberries complement the rich chocolate perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious parfaits:

Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have these ingredients ready, you're all set to start assembling your parfaits!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits:

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until melted. Let cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the cooled chocolate and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses, layer the chocolate mousse at the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of mousse on top.

Garnish and Serve

Top each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream and a few sliced strawberries for garnish. Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving.

Your Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries, and feel free to experiment by adding crushed cookies or nuts between the layers for extra texture.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to mix it up by incorporating different flavors into your chocolate mousse. For a mocha twist, add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the melted chocolate. Alternatively, a splash of orange extract can give the mousse a refreshing citrusy note that pairs beautifully with strawberries. These simple variations will allow you to customize the dish to suit your preferences while keeping the basic structure intact.

You can also experiment with other fruits. Raspberries or blueberries make excellent alternatives to strawberries, each adding their unique flavors and colors to the parfait. If you're feeling adventurous, layer in some crushed cookies or crumbled cake between the layers for added texture and flavor.

Storing and Serving Tips

Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient dessert option. Assemble the parfaits up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the whipped cream topping until just before serving to maintain its light, airy structure. Chilling them for at least 10-15 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as well.

If you're planning to serve a crowd, consider using a large trifle dish instead of individual glasses. Layer as you would for the glasses, but keep in mind that larger portions may require more mousse and strawberries. This way, everyone can scoop out their servings, making for a beautiful, communal dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mousse and layer the parfaits a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option, or light cream for a lower-fat alternative.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen ones if you thaw and drain them properly to remove excess moisture.

→ How long will the parfaits last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, though they are best enjoyed within the first day for optimal texture and flavor.