Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups

Name: Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 2 teaspoons espresso powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Sea salt, for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I love indulging in desserts that combine the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee with fresh fruits. When I created these Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups, I was aiming for a treat that would not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also impress my friends. The luscious blend of dark chocolate and espresso paired with juicy strawberries creates a delightful harmony that's hard to resist. Whether for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, these cups are the perfect little indulgence!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:09:31.923Z

Creating these Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups was a sweet journey of balancing flavors. I experimented with various chocolate types, and settled on dark chocolate for its intense richness, which pairs beautifully with the vibrant strawberries. The secret is adding espresso powder to the melted chocolate; it elevates the mocha flavor without overpowering the freshness of the fruit.

When I served these to my family, they couldn't believe how easy it was to recreate such a sophisticated dessert at home. A sprinkle of sea salt on top, just before serving, takes them to the next level; it enhances the flavors and provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Trust me, your guests will be itching to know your secret!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
The perfect combination of creamy and fruity textures
A simple yet impressive dessert for any occasion

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The star ingredients in these Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups are undoubtedly the dark chocolate and espresso. The chocolate not only provides a rich flavor but also lends a silky texture when melted, which is crucial for creating the layered effect in your cups. I recommend using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for depth of flavor, ensuring a balanced sweetness against the cream and strawberries.

Espresso powder enhances the chocolate's richness and adds a subtle coffee flavor without overpowering. If you don’t have espresso powder, you can substitute with instant coffee granules, but be sure to adjust the amount to avoid bitterness. This depth of flavor will complement the light sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite a perfect harmony of tastes.

Techniques for Perfect Whipped Cream

When whipping the cream, it’s essential to start with chilled equipment—using a cold bowl and beaters can significantly speed up the process and yield fluffier peaks. Whip the cream at medium speed until soft peaks form; overwhipping can cause it to turn grainy and eventually butter-like. Stop whipping as soon as the cream holds its shape; it should be light and airy, creating a delightful contrast to the dense chocolate layer.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cream before whipping. This will enhance the overall taste profile of the dessert and help to integrate the various flavors, making each layer more enjoyable. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works wonderfully and provides a unique flavor twist.

Assembly Tips for a Visual Treat

When layering your cups, be sure to use clear glass containers to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of each layer. Start with a thin base of chocolate, followed by whipped cream, and then strawberries; this not only looks stunning but also ensures every spoonful contains a perfect bite of each component. The layering technique is what will impress your guests visually and most importantly, texturally.

If you want to scale the recipe up for a larger gathering, consider using a trifle dish instead of individual cups. Depending on your serving size, you can multiply the layers and adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring even distribution. Remember to let the assembled cups chill properly, as this resting time melds the flavors wonderfully together.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your decadent cups:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
2 teaspoons espresso powder
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Sea salt, for garnish

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and espresso powder. Melt over a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth. Take care not to overheat.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will give a light and airy texture to balance the chocolate.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon a layer of melted chocolate into small cups or glasses. Add a layer of whipped cream followed by a layer of halved strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 20 minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.

Enjoy your Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups chilled for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or mint leaves. This will enhance both appearance and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Decadent Mocha Strawberry Cups are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the chocolate and cream layers a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just remember to assemble the cups with the strawberries right before serving, as this will keep the fruit fresh and vibrant.

If you have leftovers, cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the strawberries may start to release juice, which can affect the texture of the layers. If you notice excess liquid, gently drain it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These cups make for an amazing end to a date night or dinner party. You can garnish them with additional fresh strawberries or even a dusting of cocoa powder to enhance presentation. Pair them with a small espresso or coffee to echo the mocha flavor, tying the dessert perfectly with your beverage selection.

For a seasonal twist, consider swapping out strawberries for raspberries or peaches during their peak seasons. Each fruit brings its unique flavor while still working beautifully with the chocolate and coffee, creating a delightful seasonal variation that keeps your dessert fresh and exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seizes while melting, it may have come into contact with moisture. This can be fixed by adding a small amount of vegetable oil and gently reheating it until smooth again. Always ensure your bowls and utensils are dry before starting to prevent this issue.

For those who find their whipped cream isn't holding its shape, double-check the cream’s fat content. Heavy cream with at least 36% fat is ideal; anything lower may result in a runny texture. If you’re having trouble, you can stabilize it by adding a bit of gelatin or cornstarch mixed in with the sugar during whipping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, but it may alter the overall flavor profile.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep leftover cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best quality.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy substitute, but the texture may vary.

→ Can I make these cups in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to keep the strawberries fresh.