Picture this: the enticing aroma of chocolate wafts through your kitchen, effortlessly making its way to your heart. That’s exactly the magic that happens when you whip up a batch of Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse. I stumbled upon this recipe one rainy afternoon when I was craving something sweet yet sophisticated. The combination of airy strawberry mousse nestled atop a crunchy Oreo base, all draped in rich dark chocolate ganache, is a dessert that not only pleases the eye but also dances on the palate.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge yourself after a long day, this mousse is the perfect answer. It’s remarkably easy to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it with your favorite berries or even add a hint of mint for a refreshing twist. Get ready to savor every delightful spoonful of this decadent treat!
Why love Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse?
Irresistible Elegance: This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse combines sophistication and simplicity, making it an effortless showstopper for any gathering.
Decadent Layers: Delight in the contrast of airy mousse, crunchy Oreo base, and rich chocolate ganache in every spoonful.
Versatile Delight: Personalize it with seasonal berries or a hint of mint for a fresh twist that will surprise your guests!
Crowd Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dessert that looks fancy yet takes minimal time to prepare.
Make Ahead: Prepare it the night before for stress-free entertaining while still delivering an unforgettable treat.
Always a Hit: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual get-together, this dessert shines in every occasion.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse Ingredients
• Get ready to create this stunning dessert with fresh and delightful ingredients!
For the Oreo Base
- Oreos – Adds a delicious crunch; feel free to use any chocolate wafer cookies as a substitute.
- Unsalted butter – Binds the Oreo crust; margarine works well if needed.
- Kosher salt – Enhances sweetness; you can use regular salt in a pinch.
For the Mousse
- Fresh strawberries – The main flavor component; you can also use raspberries or blueberries for a twist.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the strawberry base; reduce or substitute with honey for a more natural sweetness.
- Fresh lemon juice – Adds a zesty brightness; apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the strawberry mixture; replace with arrowroot starch if desired.
- Unflavored gelatin – Provides essential structure to your mousse; agar-agar works for a vegan option.
- Cold water – Necessary to dissolve the gelatin.
- Heavy cream (divided) – Creates the mousse’s light and airy texture; plant-based cream alternatives can be used here.
For the Ganache
- Dark chocolate (60% cacao) – The star of the rich ganache; for a sweeter option, try semi-sweet or milk chocolate.
- Refined coconut oil – Helps smooth the ganache; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
For the Whipped Topping
- Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream; can be omitted for a lighter topping.
- Additional heavy cream – Whipped to perfection for a delightful dollop on top.
Dive into your kitchen and gather these ingredients to craft your divine Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse!
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Prepare the Oreo Base: Crush the Oreos finely, then mix them with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into your serving cups and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set the base.
Make the Strawberry Mixture: Blend hulled strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until smooth. Heat the mixture on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring until thickened, then allow it to cool completely.
Hydrate Gelatin: In a small bowl, combine unflavored gelatin with cold water, allowing it to bloom for 5 minutes. Warm it gently until dissolved, then let it cool slightly.
Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip half of the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold in the cooled strawberry mixture and the cooled gelatin, being gentle to retain the airy texture.
Layer the Mousse: Spoon the strawberry mousse over the chilled Oreo crust in the cups, filling them about three-quarters full. Return them to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, combine dark chocolate and refined coconut oil. Heat gently, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the chilled mousse.
Finish with Toppings: Whip the remaining heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until soft peaks form. Dollop this whipped cream on top of each mousse. Garnish with fresh strawberries and crushed Oreos for an extra touch of elegance.
Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for an exquisite finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Fridge: Store your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for the mousse, you can freeze the Oreo base for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before assembling.
Reheating: If you have ganache leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm but not hot.
Make-Ahead: For optimal texture and flavor, prepare the mousse a day in advance. This allows the layers to set beautifully in the fridge.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Oreo base up to 3 days in advance and keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crunch. The mousse itself can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead; just make sure to allow it to chill thoroughly after layering it over the Oreo base. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply prepare the ganache and drizzle it on top—just remember to let it cool slightly to avoid melting the mousse. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute fuss!
Expert Tips for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Cool the Mixture: Ensure the strawberry base is completely cool before folding it into the whipped cream to avoid melting and losing airy texture.
Temperature Matters: The ganache should be slightly warm, not hot. This prevents it from becoming too runny when drizzled over your mousse.
Prep Ahead: Prepare the Oreo crunchies in advance and store them in an airtight container. This makes assembly quicker and easier when you’re ready to serve your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse.
Choosing Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache to achieve the richest flavor. Sweet options can yield a different taste profile than specified in the recipe.
Alternative Berries: Feel free to experiment with different berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, if strawberries are out of season. This adds variety while keeping the mousse delicious!
Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse
Get ready to explore exciting twists for your mousse! The beauty of this dessert is in its versatility, so feel free to mix things up.
- Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a tart twist that adds a burst of flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of mint extract into the strawberry mixture for a refreshing, herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Health-Conscious: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter mousse that still maintains a creamy texture.
- Vegan Option: Replace gelatin with agar-agar and use coconut whipped cream for a delightful vegan alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Nuts About It: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the Oreo base for an extra layer of crunch and flavor that delights the senses.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the chocolate ganache for an unexpected heat that will surprise your taste buds!
- Expanded Ganache: For a nutty twist, mix in almond or hazelnut spread into the ganache for a rich and decadent layer.
- Layered Delight: Layer the mousse with alternating bases, like a cookie crumble or fresh fruit, to showcase its deliciously varied components.
Let your creativity run wild and personalize this decadent dessert to match your mood and preferences!
What to Serve with Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse?
To create a memorable meal around this decadent dessert, consider these perfect pairings that enhance the experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the mousse while adding a refreshing contrast.
- Coffee or Espresso: Sip on a rich coffee or espresso. The bold flavors balance the mousse’s sweetness and provide a warm finish.
- Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti pairs perfectly, adding a delightful texture and an extra chocolatey bite that echo the ganache.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side offers a light and airy balance to the rich mousse. The cream melts seductively into each spoonful.
- Mint Tea: A soothing mint tea helps cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the fruity flavors of the mousse while providing a sense of comfort.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a tangy contrast to the chocolate, harmonizing with the overall dessert theme without overwhelming it.
- Sparkling Wine: A crisp sparkling wine adds elegance and effervescence, making every bite feel like a celebratory moment. Each sip takes the experience to another level!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my mousse?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and firm. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold. The sweet fragrance is also a good indicator of ripeness. If you’re using frozen berries, they should be vibrant and free of ice crystals.
How should I store leftover Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse?
The mousse can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain its delightful texture and flavors. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, it’s best to eat it fresh!
Can I freeze the mousse or its components?
While it’s not ideal to freeze the mousse itself due to its airy texture, you can freeze the Oreo base for up to 1 month. To do so, prepare the base as directed, then place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to use it, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator before assembling your mousse.
What if my ganache turns out too runny?
Very! If your ganache is too runny, it could be too hot or not mixed enough. First, let it cool slightly, then try whisking in a bit more chocolate to thicken it up. You can also refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes to help it firm up before drizzling over the mousse.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this dessert?
When making the Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse, remember that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep this dessert away from your furry friends. Additionally, be cautious with potential allergies, as this mousse contains dairy, gluten, and gelatin. Always check labels if you’re serving others!
Indulgent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mousse for Every Occasion
Equipment
- - Mixing bowl
- - Saucepan
- Whisk
- food processor
- - Measuring cups
- - Measuring spoons
- Serving cups
Ingredients
For the Oreo Base
- 24 cookies Oreos or any chocolate wafer cookies
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
For the Mousse
- 2 cups Fresh strawberries hulled
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar or honey for a natural sweetness
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch or arrowroot starch
- 1 tablespoon Unflavored gelatin or agar-agar for vegan option
- 1/4 cup Cold water
- 1 cup Heavy cream divided
For the Ganache
- 8 ounces Dark chocolate (60% cacao) or semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons Refined coconut oil or vegetable oil
For the Whipped Topping
- 1 tablespoon Confectioners’ sugar optional
- 1 cup Additional heavy cream whipped
Instructions
Oreo Base
- Crush the Oreos finely, then mix them with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Press this mixture into your serving cups and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set the base.
Strawberry Mixture
- Blend hulled strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until smooth. Heat the mixture on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring until thickened, then allow it to cool completely.
Hydrate Gelatin
- In a small bowl, combine unflavored gelatin with cold water, allowing it to bloom for 5 minutes. Warm it gently until dissolved, then let it cool slightly.
Whip Cream
- In a mixing bowl, whip half of the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold in the cooled strawberry mixture and the cooled gelatin.
Layer the Mousse
- Spoon the strawberry mousse over the chilled Oreo crust in the cups, filling them about three-quarters full. Return them to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Prepare Ganache
- In a small saucepan, combine dark chocolate and refined coconut oil. Heat gently, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the chilled mousse.
Finish Toppings
- Whip the remaining heavy cream with confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Dollop this whipped cream on top of each mousse. Garnish with fresh strawberries and crushed Oreos.