Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups
Highlighted under: Sweet Collection
When I first thought about making dessert cups, I wanted something that would be both indulgent and refreshing. The combination of rich chocolate with the freshness of strawberries intrigued me. After a few trial runs, I discovered that adding a crunch element not only elevated the texture but also made the flavor profile irresistible. These Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups have become a staple in my dessert repertoire, perfect for gatherings or a late-night treat. Trust me, once you take a bite, you'll know why they’re a hit!
Creating these chocolate strawberry crunch cups was such a delightful adventure! I couldn't help but experiment with different textures and flavors. The moment I added crushed cookies for that extra crunch, it transformed the dessert into something extraordinary. It’s a little detail that made a big difference, and I encourage you to try it!
As I continued perfecting the recipe, I found that layering the ingredients not only looked beautiful but also ensured each spoonful was a remarkable blend of flavors. Every bite is a celebration of chocolate, strawberry, and that satisfying crunch that I truly adore!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate paired with fresh strawberries
- Crunchy layer for that perfect textural contrast
- Perfect for parties or a sweet personal treat
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to the richness of these Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups lies in the dark chocolate. Choose high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. The heavy cream not only adds creaminess but also helps the chocolate layer set to the perfect consistency. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
For the crunch layer, I recommend using cookies that have a bold flavor, like Oreos, which add a chocolatey depth. If you prefer something less sweet, Digestives are a great choice. The butter melds the cookie crumbs together, so ensure it’s fully melted to avoid dry spots. Pressing the mixture firmly into the cups is crucial; it provides stability and holds the layers together when assembled.
Perfecting the Assembly
Layering is an essential technique for these cups. When pouring the chocolate layer, allow it to cool slightly to prevent it from melting the cookie base. Aim for a temperature just below boiling to ensure that the chocolate melts smoothly without graininess. This attention to temperature makes the final dessert velvety rather than clumpy.
After the chocolate layer has set, the strawberries add freshness and a vibrant color contrast. Tossing them with sugar not only enhances their natural sweetness but also draws out some moisture, which can create a syrupy garnish for the top of each cup. For an extra pop of flavor, consider a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the strawberries before serving.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Layer
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
For the Crunch Layer
- 150g crushed cookies (like Oreos or Digestives)
- 50g butter, melted
For the Strawberry Layer
- 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Make the Chocolate Layer
In a saucepan, heat the cream until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and sugar. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Crunch Layer
In a bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of dessert cups to form an even layer.
Assemble the Cups
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cookie base, filling each cup about halfway. Refrigerate for 15 minutes until set.
Add the Strawberry Layer
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar. Layer the strawberries on top of the set chocolate in each cup.
Finish and Serve
Chill the cups for another 10 minutes. Garnish with mint leaves before serving for a fresh touch. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fun twist!
Make-Ahead Tips
These dessert cups can be prepared in advance, making them an ideal choice for gatherings. The chocolate layer can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are covered well to prevent the chocolate from absorbing any odors from the fridge, which can affect the flavor.
The crunch layer can also be prepped in advance, but I recommend assembling the cups just a few hours before serving to maintain the cookie’s crispness. If made too early, the cookies may become soggy due to the moisture from the chocolate.
Variations to Try
For a unique twist on these cups, try adding different fruits. Raspberries or blueberries can add a tartness that contrasts deliciously with the chocolate. You might even incorporate a layer of whipped cream or a flavored mousse between the chocolate and fruit layers for added complexity.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with flavored chocolates, such as orange-infused dark chocolate, or add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate's flavor. These small changes can elevate the dessert and introduce new taste dimensions!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, white chocolate works well, but the flavor profile will be sweeter.
→ How long can I store these cups?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free cookies for the crunch layer.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups
When I first thought about making dessert cups, I wanted something that would be both indulgent and refreshing. The combination of rich chocolate with the freshness of strawberries intrigued me. After a few trial runs, I discovered that adding a crunch element not only elevated the texture but also made the flavor profile irresistible. These Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups have become a staple in my dessert repertoire, perfect for gatherings or a late-night treat. Trust me, once you take a bite, you'll know why they’re a hit!
Created by: Elodie March
Recipe Type: Sweet Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Layer
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
For the Crunch Layer
- 150g crushed cookies (like Oreos or Digestives)
- 50g butter, melted
For the Strawberry Layer
- 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Mint leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, heat the cream until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and sugar. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of dessert cups to form an even layer.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cookie base, filling each cup about halfway. Refrigerate for 15 minutes until set.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar. Layer the strawberries on top of the set chocolate in each cup.
Chill the cups for another 10 minutes. Garnish with mint leaves before serving for a fresh touch. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fun twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g