Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert

Name: Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 50g sugar; 200ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 30g sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Chocolate sauce; Mint leaves

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert! It’s a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with the bright, refreshing taste of strawberries. Whenever I serve this dessert, everyone is amazed by how beautiful and delicious it looks and tastes. The layers create a stunning presentation, and the flavors are simply irresistible. I love that it's easy to prepare, yet feels indulgent—and it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet escape at home.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:41:35.845Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to experiment with a dessert that encompasses the flavors of Dubai, and thus the Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert was born. It features luscious chocolate mousse layered with fresh strawberries, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. I found that using high-quality chocolate truly elevates the dish, making each bite simply divine.

What I love about this dessert is how it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When I serve it chilled, it's like biting into a piece of heaven. For an extra touch, I sometimes garnish it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts, which adds that perfect little crunch to the creamy mousse.

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Stunning presentation perfect for gatherings

Mastering the Chocolate Mousse

The key to an airy and light chocolate mousse lies in the proper incorporation of the whipped egg whites. When whisking the egg whites, ensure they reach stiff peaks, which means they hold their shape firmly without collapsing. This step is crucial, as it provides the dessert with its signature fluffy texture. If you're having trouble achieving stiff peaks, make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free from any grease, as this can hinder the egg whites from whipping properly.

Melt the dark chocolate gently to avoid burning it. Using a heatproof bowl over simmering water will allow for careful temperature control. If you're short on time, the microwave works too; just remember to melt it in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t seize up. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly before mixing with the egg yolks and sugar. This way, the temperature difference won't cook the egg yolks, resulting in a smooth mousse.

Creating the Perfect Strawberry Layer

Macerating the strawberries is a crucial step that enhances their flavor while releasing their juices for a luscious layer. By combining the hulled and sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, you're not just sweetening them; the acidity of the lemon brightens the natural sweetness of the strawberries. Allow them to sit for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to fully develop their juices before layering them with the chocolate mousse. This step adds a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire dessert.

If you want to switch things up or if strawberries are out of season, feel free to use other berries like raspberries or blueberries. Just remember that some berries may be juicier than others, so adjust the sugar and lemon juice to suit the type of fruit you choose. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this dessert throughout the year while adding a personal touch to each preparation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making the dessert:

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
50g sugar
200ml heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
30g sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnishing

Chocolate sauce
Mint leaves

Make sure to prepare the ingredients in advance for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the dessert:

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or in the microwave in short bursts. Let it cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the chocolate mixture. Finally, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently incorporate them too. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

Toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them macerate for about 10 minutes until they release their juices.

Assemble the Dessert

In serving glasses, layer the chocolate mousse and macerated strawberries alternately. Start with a layer of mousse, followed by strawberries, and repeat until the glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, drizzle with chocolate sauce and garnish with mint leaves.

Enjoy your Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Dessert!

Pro Tips

Using high-quality chocolate will enhance the flavor of the mousse. Don’t skip chilling time
it helps the layers set perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an even more visually appealing presentation, consider serving the dessert in a variety of glassware. Small mason jars, coupe glasses, or even elegant dessert bowls can add a charming touch to your table setting. You can also personalize each serving by topping with different garnishes such as crushed nuts, additional fresh fruit, or even a sprinkle of edible flowers to impress your guests further.

Experimenting with flavor is also a fun way to customize this dessert. A splash of orange liqueur in the chocolate mousse or adding a touch of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries can create interesting flavor combinations. Just be mindful that adding too much liquid can alter the texture, so keep it minimal for the best results.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dessert is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for a busy day or entertaining guests. You can prepare the chocolate mousse and strawberry layer up to a day in advance. Once assembled, cover the dessert lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delightful when you finally serve it.

Although this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing it, as the texture of the mousse may change when thawed. If there are any leftovers, simply keep them covered in the refrigerator; you might find that the flavors get better as they chill!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will be sweeter and change the flavor profile.

→ How long can I store this dessert?

The dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cover it to prevent it from absorbing any odors.

→ What if I have leftover mousse?

Leftover mousse can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use it in other desserts or simply enjoy it on its own!

→ Can I make this dessert vegan?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with aquafaba (chickpea water) for the mousse and use coconut cream for a vegan option!