Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Layers

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Layers
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 250ml heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; Juice of 1 lemon; Whipped cream, for garnish; Additional strawberries, for topping; Chocolate shavings, for decoration

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I’ve always had a soft spot for desserts that combine rich chocolate with fresh fruits. This Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Layers recipe has become my go-to for indulging in that perfect blend. The layers of velvety chocolate mousse, luscious strawberries, and a dash of cream create a heavenly experience. It’s a dessert that's not only visually stunning but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Whether it's for a celebration or simply to satisfy my sweet cravings, this dessert never fails to impress.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:57:36.731Z

When I first made this dessert, I tried to replicate a version from one of my favorite Dubai cafes. The secret lies in using high-quality chocolate and ripe strawberries, which elevate the flavors significantly. I remember the first spoonful was pure bliss—so decadent and balanced!

One crucial tip I learned is to let the layers set properly before serving. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often prepare this in advance and keep it refrigerated, ready to impress guests when they arrive. The fresh berries on top add a lovely contrast!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of decadent chocolate complemented by fresh strawberries
A visually stunning dessert that wows any dinner party
Easy to assemble, making it a perfect choice for all occasions

Mastering the Chocolate Mousse

The chocolate mousse layer is the star of this dessert, and the technique used to create it is crucial for achieving a smooth, airy texture. When melting the chocolate, use a double boiler setup to prevent overheating, which can lead to a grainy consistency. Stir the chocolate gently until it's fully melted and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream; this helps maintain its volume and ensures a light mousse.

The whipped cream should be perfectly aerated, meaning you've achieved soft peaks that hold their shape without becoming stiff. Over-whipping can lead to butter, which is not desirable in a mousse. That said, if you accidentally over-whip, you can gently fold in a bit of unwhipped cream to smooth it out. This step enhances the richness of the mousse while balancing the sweetness from the chocolate.

Strawberry Preparation Tips

Macerating the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice is essential for releasing their natural juices, which enhances their flavor and texture in the dessert. Allow the strawberries to sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing; this helps to create a syrup that will beautifully soak into the layers. If you're short on time, you can skip the maceration, but the enhanced flavor depth is worth the wait.

When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe, in-season berries for the best flavor. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, consider using thawed frozen strawberries, but be wary of excess moisture; pat them dry before mixing with sugar and lemon juice. This ensures that your dessert doesn’t become too watery, maintaining the desired texture in each layer.

Assembling and Storing

For assembly, I recommend using clear serving glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberries. Start and finish with a layer of chocolate mousse, as it provides a solid base and a rich aroma. Use a piping bag to create neat layers, or simply spoon them in for a more rustic look. Don’t worry if the layers aren’t perfect; the end result will still be stunning and indulgent.

Chilling is important for this dessert, not just for setting but also for melding flavors. Aim to refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, though leaving it overnight can deepen the flavor profile further. If you're preparing this for an event, you can make it up to a day in advance. Just ensure it's covered to prevent drying out and absorbing other fridge odors.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Layer

200g dark chocolate, chopped
250ml heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
Juice of 1 lemon

For Assembling

Whipped cream, for garnish
Additional strawberries, for topping
Chocolate shavings, for decoration

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Once melted, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold the chocolate into the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Assemble the Dessert Layers

In serving glasses or a trifle dish, add a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with additional strawberries and chocolate shavings.

Chill the Dessert

Cover the serving glasses or dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality chocolate for the mousse to ensure a rich, velvety texture. Feel free to customize the fruit layer with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize this dessert according to your preferences or seasonal ingredients. For a tropical twist, consider replacing strawberries with mangoes or kiwis, adjusting the sugar and lemon juice to suit the chosen fruit. Additionally, you might incorporate flavors like orange zest or a splash of liqueur in the mousse for an adult variation that brings surprising depth to the dessert.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream in the mousse layer with whipped coconut cream. The flavor will shift slightly, but it will maintain the rich, creamy texture, making it a perfect dairy-free alternative. Be sure to chill the coconut cream beforehand to ensure it whips better.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate mousse isn’t setting up as expected, it might be due to melted chocolate being too warm when mixed with the whipped cream. To rectify, refrigerate the mousse mixture for about 15 minutes to help it thicken before layering. Always ensure your mixing bowls and utensils are clean and free of any grease, as this will impact the fluffiness of the whipped cream.

For the strawberries, if they turn out too sweet or syrupy, a dash of extra lemon juice can help balance the sweetness. On the flip side, if the flavor falls flat, consider adding a pinch of salt, which can enhance the natural sweetness and flavor complexity of the berries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for prepping ahead. Assemble it a day in advance and just chill it in the fridge.

→ What if I can't find fresh strawberries?

You can substitute with frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter taste, or even white chocolate for a creamier texture.

→ Is it necessary to chill the layers?

Yes, chilling helps the layers set properly and enhances the flavors.