There’s a special kind of joy that comes from indulging in a decadent dessert, and this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse is the perfect embodiment of that delight. Just think about the first bite: the luscious strawberry mousse melting on your tongue, harmoniously layered with a rich, glossy chocolate ganache. You may even hear a soft sigh of happiness from your guests as they dig into these stunning mousse cups.
Initially, I thought creating something so beautifully layered would be time-consuming and fussy, but I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward this recipe is. Ideal for romantic evenings, celebrations, or simply when you want to treat yourself, these mousse cups are an invitation to elevate your dessert game. With their make-ahead convenience, you can whip them up in advance to impress without the last-minute stress.
So grab your favorite strawberries and let’s dive into crafting this extraordinary dessert that’s bound to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why love Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse?
Deliciously Divine: This treat layers strawberry mousse with rich ganache for a delightful fusion of flavors.
Easy to Make: Even novice chefs can master this recipe with simple steps, so no special skills are needed.
Make-Ahead Perfection: Prepare in advance for effortless entertaining and a stress-free dessert presentation!
Eye-Catching Presentation: The stunning layers and garnishes create a dessert that looks as great as it tastes.
Versatile Choices: Customize with different fruits or flavors to suit your cravings!
Don’t forget to check out our other spectacular dessert recipes for more inspiration!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse Ingredients
For the Oreo Crust
• Oreos – Provides a crunchy texture for the base; substitute with chocolate wafer cookies for a similar effect.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the Oreo crumbs for the crust; use margarine if needed.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; sea salt can be an alternative.
For the Ganache
• Dark Chocolate (60% cacao) – Makes the ganache rich; use semi-sweet chocolate if unavailable.
• Refined Coconut Oil – Adds sheen to the ganache; can substitute with vegetable oil if necessary.
For the Mousse
• Unflavored Gelatin – Helps set the mousse; agar-agar works as a vegetarian alternative.
• Cold Water – Activates gelatin; no substitutions needed.
• Fresh Strawberries – Main flavor for the mousse; vibrant and sweet ripe strawberries yield the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mousse; adjust to taste; honey could be a substitute.
• Cornstarch – Stabilizes the mousse, ensuring a smooth texture; flour can be used in a pinch but may alter flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Enhances flavor brightness; use lime juice as an alternative.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a light, fluffy texture for the mousse and topping; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream topping; regular sugar can be substituted, but it must be finely ground to prevent grittiness.
Indulge in this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse with these essential ingredients, and watch your dessert make a delightful impact!
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Prepare the Oreo crust: Start by crushing the Oreos into fine crumbs. Combine them with melted unsalted butter and a pinch of kosher salt, then press this mixture into the bottom of serving cups to form a crunchy base.
Make the ganache: In a heatproof bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and refined coconut oil. Gently melt this mixture over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Dissolve gelatin: In a small bowl, mix unflavored gelatin with cold water. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes, then gently heat it until dissolved, taking care not to boil.
Prepare the mousse base: Blend hulled strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Incorporate gelatin: Once the gelatin mixture has cooled slightly, fold it gently into the strawberry base, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Whip cream: In a separate mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the strawberry mixture to keep it light and airy.
Layer mousse: Spoon or pipe the mousse over the prepared Oreo crusts. Allow them to chill in the refrigerator for about 2-4 hours, until set.
Top with ganache: After the mousse has set, drizzle the warm ganache on top of each mousse cup. Let them refrigerate briefly to firm up the ganache.
Finish with whipped cream and strawberries: Right before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and garnish with whole strawberries and a sprinkle of crushed Oreo crunchies for an inviting touch.
Optional: For an extra elegant touch, add a sprig of mint on top!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Cool the Base: Ensure the strawberry base is entirely cool before folding in the whipped cream to maintain that light, airy texture.
Prep Ahead: For optimal flavor, create the chocolate Oreo crunchies up to 3 days in advance, allowing them to set nicely.
Portion Control: Use smaller serving cups to control portions, making the dessert visually appealing and perfect for any occasion.
Layer with Care: When layering the mousse, take care to spoon it gently over the crust to prevent mixing and maintain distinct layers in your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse.
Fresh is Best: Choose ripe, fresh strawberries for a more vibrant flavor and texture in the mousse, making your dessert truly shine.
What to Serve with Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse?
Create a memorable dining experience by pairing this luscious mousse with complementary delights.
- Fresh Berries: Lightly macerated strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of freshness that enhances the chocolate and strawberry flavors.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip sliced fruits or marshmallows in warm chocolate fondue for a fun and interactive dessert experience that echoes the mousse’s indulgence.
A warm cup of tea or coffee can be a luxurious touch to round out the meal. These choices contrast nicely with the sweet richness of the mousse while contributing to the overall sensory delight for your guests.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic dessert pairs perfectly with the mousse, offering a creamy, cold counterpoint to the silky layers and crunchy texture.
- Sparkling Water: Refreshing and light, sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites, allowing the chocolate flavors to shine through.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: For a delightful sweet-salty crunch, serve these pretzels alongside your mousse to provide a satisfying contrast.
Consider garnishing your presentation with sprigs of mint or edible flowers for that extra touch of elegance!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse cups are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing guests! You can prepare the mousse base and the Oreo crust up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their quality. The ganache can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just gently reheat before pouring it over the mousse. To finish the dessert, layer the mousse over the prepared crust, chill until set, then add the warm ganache and toppings just before serving for delightful results that are just as delicious! This strategy allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor without the last-minute stress.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Fridge: Store assembled mousse cups in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. This keeps the mousse fresh and maintains its creamy texture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the mousse, it’s best to do so before adding the ganache and toppings. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen mousse, transfer to the fridge to thaw overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain texture.
Serving Tips: Add the ganache and final toppings a few hours before serving to keep everything fresh and visually stunning in your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse.
Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert, adding your own personal twist to make it even more irresistible!
Berry Bliss: Swap fresh strawberries for raspberries or blueberries to create a mixed berry mousse with vibrant flavors.
Citrus Twist: Use orange juice and zest instead of lemon juice to infuse a bright, zesty flavor into your mousse.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or hazelnuts in the Oreo crust for an added layer of texture and nutty flavor.
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with a splash of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the mousse’s sweetness and depth.
White Chocolate Wonder: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a creamier, sweeter ganache that will delight any sweet tooth.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and regular butter with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the ganache for a surprising yet delightful hint of heat.
Mini Servings: Use shot glasses instead of regular cups to serve mini portions—perfect for parties or when you want to indulge without overdoing it!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for the mousse?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and plump, with a sweet aroma. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these may be overripe and lacking in flavor. A good rule of thumb is to select strawberries with their green caps intact, as this helps retain their freshness longer.
How should I store the chocolate-covered strawberry mousse?
You can store your assembled mousse cups in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. This ensures they stay fresh and the mousse retains its creamy texture. However, I often recommend adding the ganache and toppings just before serving for the best presentation and taste!
Can I freeze chocolate-covered strawberry mousse?
Yes, you can freeze the mousse, but it’s best to do so before adding the ganache and toppings. Wrap the mousse tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before finishing with ganache and toppings.
What if my mousse doesn’t set?
If your mousse doesn’t set properly, it may be due to insufficient incorporation of the gelatin. Make sure the gelatin mixture is fully dissolved and evenly folded into the strawberry base. Also, ensure that the mousse is chilled for the recommended 2-4 hours. If it still seems too soft, you might try refrigerating it for a bit longer.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse contains dairy and gluten due to the heavy cream and Oreo crust. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider using dairy alternatives like coconut cream for a dairy-free version and gluten-free cookies for the crust. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Oreo crust: Start by crushing the Oreos into fine crumbs. Combine them with melted unsalted butter and a pinch of kosher salt, then press this mixture into the bottom of serving cups to form a crunchy base.
- Make the ganache: In a heatproof bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and refined coconut oil. Gently melt this mixture over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Dissolve gelatin: In a small bowl, mix unflavored gelatin with cold water. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes, then gently heat it until dissolved, taking care not to boil.
- Prepare the mousse base: Blend hulled strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate gelatin: Once the gelatin mixture has cooled slightly, fold it gently into the strawberry base, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Whip cream: In a separate mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the strawberry mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Layer mousse: Spoon or pipe the mousse over the prepared Oreo crusts. Allow them to chill in the refrigerator for about 2-4 hours, until set.
- Top with ganache: After the mousse has set, drizzle the warm ganache on top of each mousse cup. Let them refrigerate briefly to firm up the ganache.
- Finish with whipped cream and strawberries: Right before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and garnish with whole strawberries and a sprinkle of crushed Oreo crunchies for an inviting touch.