These Chocolate Mousse Cups are a stunning and delicious dessert made with silky, milk chocolate mousse spooned into delicate edible chocolate bowls. Topped with fresh strawberries and served with a berry coulis, this elegant treat is inspired by a dessert served in Bali and reimagined at home. It’s rich yet light, perfect for dinner parties, romantic evenings, or just when you need a showstopping sweet treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6 oz milk chocolate

• 3 large egg yolks

• 3 tbsp sugar

• 1½ cups heavy cream, divided

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 8 chocolate cups or bowls

• Optional: fresh strawberries, berry coulis, chocolate sprinkles for garnish

Directions

1. Melt Chocolate: In a glass bowl, microwave milk chocolate on 50% power for 1 minute. Stir and continue in 30-second intervals until fully melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make Custard Base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar. Add ½ cup of heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).

3. Combine with Chocolate: Remove from heat and whisk in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. Chill the mixture until completely cool.

4. Whip Cream: In a separate large bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

5. Fold Mousse: Stir ⅓ of the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate custard to lighten it, then gently fold in the rest of the whipped cream until smooth.

6. Fill & Chill: Spoon the mousse into chocolate cups. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days).

7. Serve: Garnish with strawberries, berry coulis, and chocolate sprinkles if desired. Serve chilled.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: ~320 kcal

• Fat: ~25g

• Saturated Fat: ~15g

• Cholesterol: ~120mg

• Sodium: ~35mg

• Carbohydrates: ~20g

• Sugar: ~18g

• Protein: ~4g

• Calcium: ~70mg

• Iron: ~1mg

The Beauty of Individual Servings

One of the standout features of this dessert is its individual presentation. Chocolate mousse is already a beloved treat, but serving it in edible chocolate cups elevates the experience. Each person receives their own beautifully portioned dessert that feels tailor-made and luxurious. This style of serving not only adds visual appeal but also makes plating and cleanup much easier—there are no ramekins to wash, and the “container” is entirely edible. Whether you’re hosting a formal event or a casual gathering, these mousse cups make an impression without being overly complicated.

The Allure of Silky Milk Chocolate Mousse

At the heart of this dessert is the mousse itself—a smooth, creamy, and airy mixture that captures the essence of milk chocolate. Unlike dark chocolate mousse, which can be quite intense, milk chocolate mousse is mellow and comforting, making it an ideal base for additional flavors like vanilla and berry. The preparation combines classic French technique with easy-to-follow steps. It starts with a custard base made from egg yolks, sugar, and cream, which is then blended with melted milk chocolate for a rich and velvety consistency. The final folding in of whipped cream adds the essential airiness that makes mousse so light and satisfying.

The Chocolate Cup: A Functional Showpiece

Using a chocolate cup as a vessel is not just about aesthetics—it’s also a textural and flavor bonus. The firm snap of the chocolate contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy mousse inside. As the spoon glides through the mousse and breaks into the edible shell, each bite offers a satisfying mix of textures. You can use pre-made chocolate cups from specialty stores, or make your own by painting melted chocolate into silicone molds and chilling until firm. Either way, they add sophistication and an interactive element to the dessert, turning it into an experience, not just a sweet treat.

Topping It Off: Strawberries and Berry Coulis

While the mousse and chocolate shell offer richness, the toppings bring brightness and balance. Fresh strawberries provide a burst of freshness and natural sweetness that complements the creamy mousse. A drizzle of berry coulis—typically made from pureed raspberries or mixed berries, strained to remove seeds—adds tang and vibrant color. These toppings are not just decorative; they’re crucial to balancing the dessert’s sweetness with tart and fruity notes. For an extra layer of texture and whimsy, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or chocolate sprinkles can be added right before serving.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the greatest benefits of this recipe is its make-ahead nature. The mousse cups can be assembled up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes them ideal for entertaining, as you can prepare dessert well ahead of time and focus on your main course or guests. The mousse sets up beautifully in the fridge, and the chocolate cups hold their shape, staying crisp and glossy. Simply add the toppings shortly before serving for the best appearance and texture.

A Dessert That Feels Luxurious but Is Easy to Make

Despite its sophisticated appearance, this dessert is surprisingly simple to execute. The custard base requires only a bit of patience and constant stirring, while the rest of the steps are easy enough for even beginner bakers. The key to success is to let the chocolate mixture cool completely before folding in the whipped cream to prevent it from deflating. Once you’ve mastered this base technique, you can experiment with different types of chocolate or flavor infusions like espresso, orange zest, or liqueurs to make the mousse your own.

Versatility and Flavor Adaptations

Chocolate Mousse Cups are incredibly versatile, offering plenty of room for creative adaptations. For a darker, more intense chocolate experience, you can substitute milk chocolate with semi-sweet or dark chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a tablespoon of espresso or coffee liqueur for a mocha twist. Infusing the cream with a vanilla bean or orange zest before whipping it adds a subtle complexity. You could even layer the mousse with a second flavor—like white chocolate or hazelnut mousse—for a more elaborate presentation. The chocolate cups themselves can also be varied—use white chocolate shells for a lighter look, or swirl milk and dark chocolate together for a marbled effect.

Ideal for All Seasons and Celebrations

This dessert’s light texture makes it appropriate for year-round enjoyment. In warmer months, it’s a refreshing treat that doesn’t feel too heavy, especially when paired with berries. In colder months, the richness of the chocolate and the creaminess of the mousse bring cozy comfort to your holiday table. These mousse cups are also perfect for romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, where presentation matters as much as flavor. They also make a stunning addition to holiday spreads, bridal showers, or birthday celebrations where individual servings are appreciated for their elegance and convenience.

Nutrition and Indulgence in Harmony

While Chocolate Mousse Cups are undeniably indulgent, they’re also portion-controlled by nature. Each cup delivers around 320 calories, which is a reasonable treat when balanced with a wholesome meal. The use of milk chocolate keeps the mousse sweet without needing additional sugar beyond the custard base. The fresh berries and coulis add natural sweetness and vitamins, while the whipped cream provides satisfying richness. For those wanting a slightly lighter version, using reduced-fat cream or substituting with Greek yogurt can still yield a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Conclusion

Chocolate Mousse Cups are a dessert that effortlessly combines elegance, flavor, and simplicity. With their smooth, airy mousse tucked into edible chocolate bowls and topped with fresh strawberries and tangy berry coulis, they offer a complete sensory experience. Easy to prepare ahead of time, endlessly customizable, and always impressive, this dessert is a guaranteed showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating a taste of a dreamy Bali vacation or simply spoiling yourself with a beautiful homemade treat, these mousse cups are proof that dessert can be both luxurious and delightfully uncomplicated. Once you try them, you’ll find endless reasons to serve them again and again.