Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Chocolate shavings (optional); Mint leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries, as it combines rich chocolate flavors with the freshness of strawberries. Making this mousse is a delightful experience; the smooth, creamy texture and the bright, fruity notes from the strawberries create a heavenly dessert. Every scoop melts in your mouth, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual get-together, I guarantee this mousse will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple to make, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:28.109Z

When I first attempted this Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries, I was amazed at how easily it came together. I initially thought making a gourmet dessert would be complicated, but the simple technique of folding whipped cream into melted chocolate made it surprisingly straightforward. I learned that using high-quality chocolate is crucial for achieving a rich flavor, so I always opt for a good bittersweet chocolate.

Another key element is the strawberries; they add a beautiful color and a fresh contrast to the rich mousse. I like to layer them between the mousse, which not only looks elegant but also surprises with each bite. Trust me, this dessert will become a favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor with a refreshing burst of strawberries
Silky, creamy mouse 'awe' factor that pleases all palates
Simple recipe that's great for both novice and seasoned cooks

Understanding Chocolate Choices

The choice of chocolate in this mousse greatly influences the flavor profile. I recommend using high-quality bittersweet chocolate with at least 60% cocoa solids. This balance provides a deep chocolate richness without overwhelming sweetness. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using semisweet chocolate. Conversely, if you want a lighter mousse, a blend of milk chocolate can be used, although it might require an adjustment in sugar to maintain the desired sweetness.

Always chop the chocolate into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting. When melting, be careful of overheating, as chocolate can easily seize up. Ideally, keep the heat low and stir continuously until you achieve a glossy, smooth texture. If you encounter a seized chocolate, a little warm cream can sometimes rescue it. Just whisk it in gradually until re-emulsified.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The secret to a luxurious chocolate mousse lies in achieving the right texture. When folding the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture, take care to keep as much air as possible. This step is crucial for creating a light, airy mousse that melts in your mouth. Use a gentle folding motion—think of lifting and turning the mixture, rather than stirring. Over-mixing can deflate the mousse and yield a denser texture.

When whipping the cream, aim for soft peaks to avoid a grainy texture. Soft peaks should hold their shape but still have a luscious creaminess. If you accidentally whip it too long and it starts to look grainy, you can add a tablespoon of unwhipped cream to smooth it out before folding it into your chocolate mixture. This small adjustment can save you from a less-than-perfect mousse.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g bittersweet chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Topping

Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Chocolate shavings (optional)
Mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Melt Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Whip Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.

Beat Egg Whites

In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, being careful not to deflate them.

Whip Cream

In yet another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.

Chill

Divide the mousse into serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve

Before serving, top with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, and mint leaves if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent touch, consider adding a splash of espresso to enhance the chocolate's flavor. Also, let the mousse sit in the fridge longer if possible
the texture improves wonderfully with time.

Preparing and Serving the Mousse

Chilling the mousse is a critical step that shouldn’t be overlooked. This dessert should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours but can be made a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to cover the servings tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any unwanted odors from affecting the mousse.

When serving, consider using a piping bag to elegantly portion the mousse into individual glasses or bowls. This presentation adds a professional touch and is an excellent method for preventing any mess. Just be careful not to overfill; allow a little space at the top for the beautiful strawberry topping.

Storage and Variations

Leftover mousse can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the texture might subtly change as it sits, losing some of its airy quality. To keep it looking fresh, consider adding the strawberry topping just before serving, rather than on all the portions at once.

For a fun twist on this classic recipe, try incorporating different fruits or flavors. Raspberries or blueberries provide a similarly fresh burst, while adding a splash of coffee liqueur can deepen the chocolate flavor. Just be mindful of altering the sweetness when transforming the recipe to ensure a perfectly balanced dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes, this mousse can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Raspberries or bananas are delicious alternatives.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe egg-free?

You can substitute the eggs with aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a vegan option.

→ How long does it last in the refrigerator?

The mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered.