The first time I saw those gorgeous Dubai chocolate strawberry cups flooding my social media feed, I knew I had to recreate them in my own kitchen. There’s something absolutely magical about the combination of rich, creamy chocolate ganache nestled perfectly with fresh, juicy strawberries in an elegant cup presentation. This dubai chocolate strawberry cup recipe brings together the luxurious essence of Middle Eastern dessert artistry with the simplicity that home bakers crave.
What makes this dessert so special isn’t just its stunning appearance, though it certainly photographs beautifully, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The smooth chocolate melts on your tongue while the strawberries provide a fresh, slightly tart contrast that keeps each bite interesting. Plus, these individual portions make them perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something truly indulgent without the commitment of a full cake.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cups:
- 12 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
For Garnish:
- 6-8 whole strawberries for topping
- 2 tablespoons crushed pistachios
- Mint leaves (optional)
- Extra melted chocolate for drizzling
Dietary Substitutions:
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cream cheese
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free
- Vegan: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use maple syrup instead of honey
- Lower sugar: Reduce powdered sugar by half and use sugar-free chocolate
Time & Planning
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6-8 cups
Make-Ahead Tips:
The chocolate cups can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The cream filling also keeps well for 2 days when covered. For best results, assemble the cups on the day you plan to serve them to maintain the strawberries’ fresh texture.
Time-Saving Strategy:
While the chocolate cups are setting in the fridge, use that time to prepare your cream filling and dice the strawberries. This overlap saves about 15 minutes of active preparation time.
How to Make It
1. Create the Chocolate Cups
Melt the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Stir in honey if using. Using a pastry brush or spoon, coat the inside of 6-8 silicone muffin cups or paper cupcake liners with the melted chocolate, creating an even layer about 1/8 inch thick. Place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set, then apply a second coat for extra stability.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling
While the chocolate sets, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the filling to become grainy.
3. Assemble the Cups
Carefully remove the set chocolate cups from their molds, they should release easily if properly set. Place a layer of diced strawberries in the bottom of each cup, then pipe or spoon the cream filling on top, leaving about 1/4 inch from the rim. Gently tap the cups on the counter to settle the filling.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Top each cup with a whole strawberry, sprinkle with crushed pistachios, and add a mint leaf if desired. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle with additional melted chocolate using a fork or piping bag. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow all flavors to meld together.
Nutrition Overview
Each serving contains approximately 380 calories with a rich profile of healthy fats from the chocolate and moderate protein from the cream cheese. The strawberries provide vitamin C and natural antioxidants, while dark chocolate contributes beneficial compounds that support heart health. These individual portions help with portion control while still delivering a satisfying dessert experience.
Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary depending on the specific chocolate used and portion sizes.
Healthier Variations
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese and use light whipped cream. This reduces calories by about 100 per serving while maintaining the creamy texture. You can also use sugar-free chocolate and reduce the powdered sugar to cut additional calories.
To boost the nutritional value, add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the filling for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The seeds will add a subtle crunch that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Serving Ideas
These dubai chocolate strawberry cups shine as an elegant dinner party dessert, especially when served on small dessert plates with delicate spoons. They pair wonderfully with champagne, coffee, or mint tea for a sophisticated finish to any meal.
For a more casual presentation, serve them as an afternoon treat with fresh fruit salad or as part of a dessert buffet. The individual portions make them perfect for outdoor gatherings since there’s no need for cutting or additional plates.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Chocolate cups cracking: This usually happens when the chocolate gets too cold too quickly. Let them come to room temperature for 5 minutes before removing from molds.
Grainy cream filling: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and don’t overbeat once you add the whipped cream.
Soggy bottoms: Pat strawberries dry before adding them to prevent excess moisture from making the chocolate cups soft.
Filling too loose: Make sure your cream is whipped to proper soft peaks before folding into the cream cheese mixture.
Storage & Reheating
Store assembled cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The chocolate cups maintain their structure well, though the strawberries are best when fresh. For longer storage, keep components separate and assemble just before serving.
These desserts are meant to be served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. Simply remove from the refrigerator 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to reach their peak.
Final Thoughts
This dubai chocolate strawberry cup recipe proves that impressive desserts don’t always require complicated techniques or professional equipment. With just a few quality ingredients and some patience for the chocolate to set, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, adjust the sweetness to your preference, experiment with different berries, or add your own creative garnishes. I’d love to hear how your version turns out and any unique twists you discover along the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate creates a sweeter, milder flavor profile. Just be aware that it may be slightly softer at room temperature, so keep the cups well-chilled until serving.
How far in advance can I make these?
The chocolate cups can be made 3 days ahead, and the filling keeps for 2 days. For best quality, assemble them the day you plan to serve them.
What if I don’t have silicone molds?
Paper cupcake liners work perfectly fine. You can also use small ramekins or even clean yogurt containers, just make sure to line them with plastic wrap for easy removal.
Can I freeze these desserts?
The chocolate cups freeze well for up to a month, but I don’t recommend freezing the assembled desserts as the cream filling and strawberries don’t thaw with the best texture.
My chocolate cups are too thin and breaking. What went wrong?
Apply a second coat of chocolate after the first layer sets. Thin spots are the most common cause of breakage. Make sure your coating is at least 1/8 inch thick throughout.
What’s the best way to get clean edges when removing from molds?
Let the chocolate come to room temperature for about 5 minutes before unmolding. If there are rough edges, gently warm a knife and trim them smooth.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Recipe: Easy Delicious Dessert
- Total Time: 2h 25m
- Yield: 6 cups 1x
Description
Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup is a luxurious dessert layered with fresh strawberries and rich chocolate for a sweet, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cups:
- 12 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
For Garnish:
- 6–8 whole strawberries for topping
- 2 tablespoons crushed pistachios
- Mint leaves (optional)
- Extra melted chocolate for drizzling
Dietary Substitutions:
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cream cheese
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free
- Vegan: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use maple syrup instead of honey
- Lower sugar: Reduce powdered sugar by half and use sugar-free chocolate
Instructions
Make Chocolate Cups
Melt chocolate with coconut oil. Coat muffin cups with chocolate and chill until set, adding a second layer if needed.Prepare Filling
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Whip cream separately, then gently fold into the cream cheese.Assemble
Fill chocolate cups with chopped strawberries, then add cream filling.Finish & Chill
Top with strawberries, nuts, or a chocolate drizzle. Chill 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 25m
- Cook Time: 2h
- Category: dessert
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern–inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 380 calories