Chocolate Strawberry Heart Mousse

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Heart Mousse
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g high-quality dark chocolate, chopped; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; A few extra strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Strawberry Heart Mousse for special occasions! The rich and velvety texture paired with the bright, fresh strawberries creates a delightful balance that everyone enjoys. It’s simple enough for a cozy date night yet elegant enough for a dinner party. Plus, I can prep it ahead of time, leaving me free to enjoy the moment with my loved ones. Trust me, this mousse will steal the show and make it a memorable dessert!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:41:29.196Z

When I first came across the idea of combining strawberries and chocolate in a mousse, I was intrigued. I decided to experiment with different ratios of chocolate to cream, and I found that using high-quality dark chocolate truly enhances the overall flavor. The slight bitterness of the chocolate perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries, making every bite a delight.

What I love most is how this dessert looks when served. I always make heart shapes, especially for romantic occasions, and it never fails to impress. I find that letting the mousse chill for a little longer gives it a firmer texture, which helps the distinct layers stand out beautifully!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry goodness
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

Choosing high-quality dark chocolate is crucial for this mousse, as it significantly influences the overall flavor and texture. Look for chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa solids for a robust, rich taste. The chocolate should melt smoothly, allowing for a glossy finish in your mousse. If you're in a pinch, semi-sweet chocolate can work as an alternative, but it may result in a sweeter mousse. Always taste your chocolate beforehand; it should be decadent and satisfying on its own.

When melting the chocolate and butter, using a double boiler method prevents direct heat from burning the chocolate. Maintain a gentle simmer, ensuring water doesn't touch your bowl, to create a smooth mixture. If the chocolate seizes up during melting, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help salvage it. The goal is a silky texture ready for incorporation into your mousse.

Mastering the Whip

Whipping the cream to the right consistency is a key step in achieving the mousse’s dreamy texture. When whipping, start on a low speed to avoid splattering and gradually increase to medium-high until soft peaks form. Be cautious not to overwhip it; the cream should remain light and airy. If it becomes too stiff and grainy, you may rescue it by gently folding in a little more unwhipped cream to regain that lovely texture.

Incorporating whipped cream into the chocolate mixture requires finesse. Use a rubber spatula and fold gently; this technique preserves the airiness needed for the mousse to be light and fluffy. Look for the chocolate mixture to lighten in color and become more voluminous as you combine the components. This will not only enhance the texture but also create a beautiful swirled effect with the strawberry puree.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful mousse:

For the Mousse

200g high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
A few extra strawberries for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Chocolate Strawberry Heart Mousse:

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and frothy. Slowly add the melted chocolate to this mixture, stirring until well combined.

Whip the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, being careful not to deflate it.

Incorporate Strawberry Puree

Fold the strawberry puree into the mousse mixture until just combined, creating a beautiful swirled effect.

Chill and Serve

Pour the mousse into heart-shaped molds or serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Garnish with fresh strawberries before serving.

Your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Heart Mousse is ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of liqueur, like strawberry liqueur, to enhance the flavor of the mousse. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, consider serving the mousse in elegant glassware to showcase the lovely layers formed from the strawberry puree. A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add an extra touch of indulgence. For a refined finish, shave some chocolate or sprinkle crushed nuts on top for contrasting texture. This attention to detail can create a stunning visual appeal, making this dessert ideal for special occasions.

If you’re preparing for a gathering, I recommend making the mousse a day in advance. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. Just ensure to cover the molds or glasses to prevent any fridge odors from affecting your dessert. Your mousse will be ready to impress your guests as soon as dessert time arrives!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers—or if you want to make this mousse ahead of time—it stores well in the refrigerator. Transfer any remaining mousse to an airtight container, where it will keep fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply scoop it into bowls and garnish as desired. Be mindful of the garnishes; fresh strawberries should ideally be added just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Freezing is also an option, although it may slightly alter the texture. If you choose to freeze, place the mousse in individual servings or an airtight container and consume within a month for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This versatility allows you to enjoy this delightful dessert at your leisure, whether it's a special occasion or an unexpected craving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this mousse in advance?

Absolutely! This mousse can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

While you can use milk chocolate, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the mousse. Dark chocolate gives it a richer taste.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can keep the mousse in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it is covered well.

→ Can I substitute the strawberries?

Yes! You can use any berries you like, such as raspberries or blueberries, or even a mix for a delightful fusion of flavors.