Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 3 large eggs, separated; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; Whipped cream for topping; Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits for a sweet treat that always impresses friends and family. The combination of luscious chocolate mousse layered with fresh, juicy strawberries makes for a delightful dessert that is both elegant and easy to prepare. Not only does it look stunning in individual glasses, but the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delicious harmony that's hard to resist. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these parfaits are a sure way to elevate any dessert experience.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:43:25.743Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits, I didn’t expect them to be such a hit among my friends. The rich chocolate mousse is incredibly simple to whip up, and it complements the fresh strawberries beautifully. I recommend using high-quality chocolate for the mousse, as it significantly enhances the overall flavor. Don't skip the step of chilling the layers for at least an hour; this not only helps them set but also allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Experimenting with different toppings has made this recipe even more fun! Sometimes, I sprinkle crushed graham crackers for a bit of crunch or fresh mint leaves for a splash of color. Each twist brings something new and exciting to the table while keeping the classic flavor profile intact. These parfaits are a perfect canvas for creativity, allowing me to share a personal touch with each serving.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate paired with sweet, fresh strawberries
A stunning visual presentation that wows guests
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to formal

      

Perfecting Your Chocolate Mousse

The key to a successful chocolate mousse lies in the temperature of your ingredients. Start by finely chopping the dark chocolate to ensure it melts evenly. Use a double boiler method for melting the chocolate carefully over low to medium heat. Avoid boiling water, which can cause the chocolate to seize. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly before incorporating it with the egg yolk mixture, which should be creamy and light in color—a sign that you've whisked enough air into it.

When beating the egg whites, start with a clean, dry bowl. This step is crucial as any fat or moisture can prevent the whites from reaching stiff peaks. Use an electric mixer for efficiency, and beat on medium speed until soft peaks form, which means the peaks gently curl over. Fold these gently into the chocolate mixture; you want to maintain the airiness for that luxurious texture. Lastly, when you whip the cream, stop once it reaches soft peaks—over-whipping can lead to grainy mousse.

Strawberries: Freshness Matters

Choosing the right strawberries is essential for the best flavor. Look for berries that are plump, bright red, and fragrant. Avoid packages with visible bruises or mushy spots, as they will affect the overall taste of your parfait. Wash them gently just before you are ready to use them to ensure maximum freshness. The sugar you sprinkle on the strawberries enhances their natural sweetness and causes them to release their juices, creating a delightful syrup that adds moisture to each layer.

If fresh strawberries are out of season or you want to try something different, feel free to use other berries like raspberries or blueberries. You can even substitute frozen strawberries; simply thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before macerating. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this dessert year-round, adapting to what’s available and fresh.

Assembling Your Parfaits

When it comes to layering your parfaits, presentation is key. Use clear glasses to highlight the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberries. Start with a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by the macerated strawberries, allowing the syrup to seep through the layers. Repeat the process, ensuring the final layer is mousse for a clean top. A dollop of whipped cream on top not only adds a creamy texture but also a luxurious finish; consider adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.

For a make-ahead option, you can store the mousse and macerated strawberries separately in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the parfaits before your guests arrive. If storing completed parfaits, take care not to overload the glasses to avoid sogginess, and aim to consume them within a day to keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits

Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream

Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

For Assembly

Whipped cream for topping
Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and presentation.

Instructions for Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits

Make the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy, then mix in the melted chocolate. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then fold gently into the chocolate mixture.

In a third bowl, whip the cream to soft peaks and fold it into the chocolate as well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will macerate the strawberries and enhance their flavor.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the chocolate mousse, followed by the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with mint if desired.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled parfaits for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!

Serve chilled for the best flavor experience.

Pro Tips

To enhance the chocolate flavor, use a chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. Also, feel free to swap strawberries for other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a delicious twist!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Parfaits can be prepared in advance, making them a perfect choice for entertaining. The chocolate mousse can be made a day ahead, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This time allows the flavors to deepen and improves the overall texture as the mousse sets further. Just remember that the strawberries should be macerated closer to serving time to retain their vibrant color and texture.

For serving, consider using varied glass sizes to create a more interesting presentation. If you have leftover parfaits, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. However, it's best to enjoy them within a day or two of assembly. If you notice any liquid collecting at the bottom, that’s normal; simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

Delicious Variations

While the classic pairing of chocolate and strawberries is irresistible, feel free to experiment with flavors. Try incorporating a splash of orange liqueur, like Grand Marnier, into the chocolate mousse for a hint of citrus that complements the berries beautifully. You could also layer your parfaits with a cookie crumble or graham cracker crumbs for added texture and crunch.

If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of cocoa powder instead of heavy cream in the mousse. This swap reduces fat while still providing a creamy consistency, and the added protein will keep you fuller longer. You can also enhance the health factor by swapping regular granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup while macerating the strawberries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chocolate mousse isn't setting properly, ensure that the chocolate was not overheated during the melting process and that both egg whites and cream were whipped to the right consistency. If your mousse is too runny, you can fold in a bit more whipped cream or refrigerate it longer to allow it to firm up before serving.

When assembling the parfaits, be cautious not to compress the strawberry layer too much, as this can lead to a soggy texture. Layer gently, allowing air to remain within the dessert. And remember, if you run out of fresh fruits, incorporating frozen versions can still yield a delightful creamy treat without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chocolate mousse a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to assemble.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover parfaits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is there a non-dairy alternative for the mousse?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free chocolate to make a dairy-free version.