Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

This Dubai chocolate strawberry cup is a decadent dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate with fresh strawberries and a touch of luxury. I love how the creamy filling pairs beautifully with the fruity topping, making it both indulgent and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it feels like a gourmet dessert without being overly complicated to make. The chocolate filling is silky and smooth, with just the right balance of richness. I like adding strawberries for freshness and pistachios for crunch, and if I want to impress, I top it off with edible gold leaf. It’s a show-stopping dessert that makes me feel like I’m serving something truly special.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

FOR THE CHOCOLATE FILLING
200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
200ml (¾ cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra silkiness)
Pinch of salt

FOR THE TOPPING
4–6 fresh strawberries, halved
2 tbsp chopped pistachios (unsalted)
Edible gold leaf (optional, for an extra luxurious finish)

Directions

1. I gently heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it’s just about to simmer.
2. I pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
3. I let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. I add the butter, honey, and a pinch of salt, stirring until the mixture is glossy and silky.
5. I divide the chocolate filling into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours until set.
6. Before serving, I top each cup with fresh strawberry halves, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and, if I want to elevate the presentation, place a touch of edible gold leaf on top.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The preparation takes around 15 minutes, plus 1 to 2 hours of chilling time.

Variations

Sometimes I switch the dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter version, or use white chocolate for a completely different look and flavor. I also like swapping strawberries with raspberries or cherries. For a hint of spice, I stir in a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the chocolate filling.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the chocolate cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat them, but I let them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, I prepare it a day before and keep it refrigerated until I’m ready to serve.

What type of chocolate works best?

I prefer 60–70% dark chocolate for a rich but balanced flavor.

Can I skip the honey?

Yes, the honey is optional, but I like how it adds extra silkiness to the filling.

Do I need to use edible gold leaf?

No, it’s purely decorative, but I love using it for a luxurious touch.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Yes, raspberries, blueberries, or cherries work wonderfully.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

I make sure the cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate and stir gently until smooth.

Can I freeze chocolate strawberry cups?

I don’t recommend freezing because the texture of the cream and fruit may change.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter for a vegan version.

How long should I chill the dessert?

I chill it for at least 1 to 2 hours, but overnight gives an even firmer set.

Can I add liqueur to the filling?

Yes, a splash of Grand Marnier, Baileys, or rum adds a lovely flavor twist.

Conclusion

This Dubai chocolate strawberry cup is an irresistible combination of rich chocolate, fresh fruit, and a touch of elegance. I love how simple it is to make while still looking like a restaurant-worthy dessert. Whether I keep it classic or dress it up with gold leaf, it always makes a memorable treat.

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