Valentines Snacks Mini Dessert Cups

Name: Valentines Snacks Mini Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 mini cups
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 12 mini cups or shot glasses; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Valentines Snacks Mini Dessert Cups! They’re the perfect way to celebrate love while indulging in a delightful treat. Each cup combines creamy layers of sweet goodness that not only look festive but also satisfy any sweet tooth. As I whipped these up, I realized how versatile they could be, allowing for different flavors and toppings. I can't wait to share this recipe with you, as it’s not only delicious but also a fun activity you can enjoy with your loved ones!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:49:17.091Z

When I first made these mini dessert cups, I was amazed by how quickly they came together! The combination of rich chocolate mousse and fresh strawberry compote created a beautiful contrast, both in flavor and presentation. I love how each layer adds its own distinct taste to every bite.

As I enjoyed my first cup, I realized the importance of chilling them properly. It allows the layers to set beautifully and enhances the flavors. These mini desserts are perfect for sharing on Valentine's Day or any special occasion!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Adorable presentation that impresses guests
Layered flavors for a delightful bite
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute treats

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Mousse

When making the chocolate mousse, it’s crucial to melt the dark chocolate gently to prevent it from seizing. A double boiler method is ideal: place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the chocolate regularly and remove it from heat once it’s glossy and completely melted, usually around 3 to 5 minutes. Let the chocolate cool slightly before folding it into the whipped cream to maintain its airy texture.

Whipping the heavy cream to the right consistency is key for a light and fluffy mousse. Aim for soft peaks—this occurs when the cream thickens enough to hold a shape but still slightly droops. Be cautious not to over-whip it, as this can lead to a grainy texture. Once you start to see peaks forming, stop mixing and gently fold in the melted chocolate for a smooth, silky finish.

Crafting the Strawberry Compote

The strawberry compote adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich chocolate mousse. While cooking the strawberries, you'll notice they start to soften and release their natural juices after about 5 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally; once the mixture thickens slightly and the strawberries are softened but not completely dissolved, it's ready. If your compote is too thick, a splash of water can help reach the desired consistency.

For a balanced flavor, adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries. If you're using particularly sweet berries, you might need less sugar. On the flip side, if your strawberries are tart, don’t hesitate to increase the sugar slightly. The lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also works as a preservative, allowing your compote to last a bit longer in the fridge—up to a week.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create these festive mini dessert cups:

For the Chocolate Mousse

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Compote

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Assembly

12 mini cups or shot glasses
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your mini dessert cups:

Prepare the Strawberry Compote

In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the strawberries break down and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool.

Make the Chocolate Mousse

In a heatproof bowl, melt dark chocolate chips over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the cooled chocolate, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

Assemble the Dessert Cups

In your mini cups, layer the chocolate mousse and strawberry compote. Start with a layer of mousse, followed by compote, and repeat until you reach the top. Finish with a dollop of mousse and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 1 hour to let the layers set. Serve cold and enjoy!

Enjoy these delightful mini cups, perfect for any celebration!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try using chili-infused chocolate for the mousse. Additionally, you can use other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for versatile flavor options.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These mini dessert cups can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for entertaining. You can prepare both the chocolate mousse and strawberry compote a day in advance. Just layer the cups a few hours before serving to keep the strawberries fresh and the mousse light. Store the assembled cups in an airtight container in the fridge, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

If you're short on mini cups, you can also use small jars for a charming presentation. Just ensure you have enough room for layering. Additionally, if you have leftover mousse, consider serving it in a small bowl with the compote drizzled on top—no one will ever complain about a mousse surplus!

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with flavors! Instead of vanilla extract in the mousse, try almond or orange extract for a unique twist. You could also incorporate a bit of espresso powder into the chocolate for a delightful mocha flavor. Alternatively, pumpkin spice or chai spices could be folded into the mousse during preparation for seasonal variations.

For the compote, other fruits work beautifully as well. Consider using raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, adjusting the sugar and lemon juice as necessary for different fruits. You can even create a mixed berry compote for added depth. The beauty of these cups lies in their adaptability, allowing you to celebrate any flavor combination that excites you!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different fruits for the compote?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches can work wonderfully.

→ How long can I store these mini dessert cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they taste best when enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make the mousse ahead of time?

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

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

Yes, you can use coconut cream or silken tofu as a substitute for heavy cream!