Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 200ml heavy cream; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; Juice of 1 lemon; 12 small dessert cups; Optional: whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Highlighted under: Pastry Dreams

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and this Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Party Dessert has become a staple at my celebrations! Combining the richness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries, it never fails to impress my guests. I relish how easy it is to prepare and how delightful it looks on the table. Each cup is a bite-sized heaven, and the vibrant colors make the dessert an irresistible eye-catcher. Trust me, this dessert will be the star of your next party!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:52:12.546Z

I first stumbled upon this dessert at a vibrant Dubai street market where the aroma of chocolate and strawberries filled the air. I knew I had to recreate this harmony at home. The layers of silky chocolate cream and sweet strawberries blend beautifully, creating a dessert that captures the essence of indulgence.

During my experiments, I discovered that letting the chocolate sit at room temperature creating a silky texture truly elevates the dessert. The combination of these elements not only brings joy to the palate but also gives a whimsical touch to any gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Gorgeous presentation that delights guests
Quick to assemble with minimal cooking required

Mastering the Chocolate Layer

The chocolate layer is the heart of this dessert, and using high-quality dark chocolate is essential for achieving that rich, decadent flavor. When melting the chocolate with the heavy cream, ensure you keep the heat at medium and stir gently until the mixture is glossy and well-combined. If the chocolate doesn't melt completely, return it to low heat for a few seconds; just be careful not to let it burn, as that can ruin the flavor and texture.

Letting the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature is crucial as it will thicken slightly and become easier to layer. If you find it too thick, you can whisk in a tablespoon of warm cream to loosen it up before assembling. I like to taste a small spoonful of the cooled mixture to ensure the balance of sweetness from the added sugar is just right for my palate.

Perfecting the Strawberry Layer

Macarating the strawberries is a vital step that enhances their flavor and creates a lovely syrup that drips into the layers below. Make sure to give them enough time—about 10 to 15 minutes is ideal. If your strawberries are particularly firm, you may want to slice them thinner to help release their juices more readily. A sprinkle of fresh mint can also add a refreshing element to the strawberry layer if desired.

If you have leftover strawberries, consider striking a balance between sweetness and acidity by adjusting the sugar or adding a hint more lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to increase the sugar slightly while tossing the strawberries. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in the balance of flavors, so taste as you go!

Assembling and Serving Tips

When assembling the dessert cups, using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off can help create cleaner layers and add a professional touch. Make sure to reserve a few slices of strawberries for garnishing the top of the cups—this adds a beautiful finish and makes the dessert even more appealing.

These chocolate strawberry cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for parties. Just ensure you refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this helps the layers set beautifully. If you're storing them, I recommend covering them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent any condensation from forming on the inside of the cups, which can affect texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dessert:

Ingredients for Chocolate Layer

200g dark chocolate, chopped
200ml heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for Strawberry Layer

250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving

12 small dessert cups
Optional: whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start preparing the dessert.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delectable Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups:

Prepare Chocolate Layer

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth, then let it cool to room temperature.

Create Strawberry Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently toss to coat and let them macerate for about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Cups

Using a spoon, layer the chocolate mixture evenly into the dessert cups, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layering until the cups are filled, finishing with strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Place the assembled cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings if desired.

Enjoy your delicious dessert at your next event!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, you can add a splash of espresso to the chocolate mixture. Ensure to use ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and color. Also, you can prepare the chocolate layer a day in advance for convenience!

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the chocolate layer—experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for a sweeter taste. You can also infuse the cream with flavors like espresso or orange zest. Just remember, the balance of flavors should still complement the fresh strawberries for the best results.

For a more exotic flair, try adding a hint of spices like cinnamon or cardamom to your chocolate mixture, or incorporating a layer of crushed nuts for added texture. Additionally, consider using fruit compotes or other berries such as blueberries or raspberries to layer with the strawberries, creating a delightful medley of flavors and colors.

Storing and Freezing

These dessert cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a great make-ahead option for busy schedules. Just be sure to keep them covered to maintain the freshness of the strawberries. If you notice the strawberries losing their firmness, you might want to enjoy them sooner rather than later for the best texture.

While this dessert is best served fresh, you can freeze the chocolate layer for later use. To do this, fill your cups only halfway with the chocolate and allow them to set once in the fridge. Then, cover and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw the chocolate layer in the fridge and add the strawberry layer just before serving for optimal freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! While strawberries are classic, feel free to mix in raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for varying flavors.

→ How long can I keep the dessert in the fridge?

The dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to avoid absorbing odors.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate and substitute the cream with a coconut cream for a delicious alternative.

→ Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them right before serving for the freshest taste.