Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 100g crispy rice cereal; 50g chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or hazelnuts); 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Collection

I’ve always had a love for desserts that blend rich flavors with a bit of crunch, and when I stumbled upon the idea of Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups, I was instantly hooked. These delightful treats combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy chocolate base, topped off with a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite. It's the perfect way to indulge after a long day or impress guests at a dinner party. Join me as I make these simple yet decadent cups that are sure to become a new favorite!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:23:36.559Z

Making these Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups was not only a delightful experience but also a chance to explore the fine balance between flavors. I experimented with different chocolate varieties, and it was the dark chocolate that really brought out the sweetness of the strawberries. I also realized that letting them chill properly before serving enhances the textures, making the crunch even more enjoyable!

As I assembled these cups, I found that layering the ingredients strategically created an exciting experience with each spoonful. I never knew how much I could elevate a simple dessert by adding layers of flavor and texture. My friends absolutely loved them, and I can’t wait to make them again!

Why You'll Love These Cups
Decadent dark chocolate paired with juicy strawberries
Crunchy layer that adds a delightful texture
A perfect balance of sweet and creamy goodness

Understanding the Layers

The Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups are a delightful harmony of textures and flavors, starting with the chocolate base. The dark chocolate is not only rich and indulgent, but it also serves as a smooth foundation that supports the dish's other elements. When melted with heavy cream, you’ll achieve a glossy finish that signifies it's ready for the next step. It’s vital to stir constantly over low heat to avoid burning the chocolate; maintaining a gentle simmer ensures the mixture remains creamy and luscious.

The crunch layer brings an exciting contrast to the creamy chocolate. By combining crispy rice cereal with chopped nuts, you introduce a satisfying crackle with every bite. This layer should be thoroughly mixed with the melted chocolate so that the cereal is coated evenly, creating a cohesive bite-sized treat. If you want a more intense nut flavor, consider toasting the nuts lightly before chopping them to enhance their crunch and elevate the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting the Assembly

Assembling your Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups requires careful layering for optimal flavor distribution. When spooning in the chocolate base, aim for an even layer that covers the bottom of your cups. Pressing the crunch layer gently ensures that it adheres well, which will prevent the layers from sliding apart. You can use the back of a tablespoon to pack it down slightly without fully compressing it, allowing for both structure and texture.

For the strawberry layer, make sure your strawberries are fresh and firm. Slicing them too thin can lead to a soggy layer, while thicker slices offer a nice bite and keep their shape. If you want to add sweetness to the strawberries, a light drizzle of honey can elevate their flavor without overpowering the rest of the dessert. Layer the strawberries evenly for a beautiful presentation that adds a pop of color to your cups.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

For the Crunch Layer

100g crispy rice cereal
50g chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or hazelnuts)

For the Strawberry Layer

200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tbsp honey (optional)

Gather all ingredients before starting to make the process smoother!

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Base

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Melt gently over a double boiler, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth. Once melted, stir in the powdered sugar and mix well.

Create the Crunch Layer

In a separate bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal and chopped nuts. Pour half of the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and nuts, mixing until evenly coated.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon a layer of the chocolate mixture into the bottom of dessert cups. Follow with a layer of the crunch mixture, pressing gently. Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top, and repeat the process until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 15 minutes to allow them to set. Serve chilled, drizzled with the remaining chocolate if desired.

Enjoy your creations and feel free to personalize them with different toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt to the chocolate layer for enhanced flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cups can easily be made ahead of time, making them a great addition to any gathering. Prepare the chocolate base and crunch layer the day before, then assemble the cups just a few hours prior to serving. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also gives the crunch layer time to firm up in the fridge, enhancing texture. Just remember to store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors.

If you plan to serve them later in the week, consider freezing them. To do this, fully assemble the cups, allowing them to set in the fridge, and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize this recipe to suit dietary needs, several ingredient substitutions are possible. For a dairy-free option, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream, which will provide a rich texture that complements the chocolate beautifully. Dark chocolate can also be replaced with dairy-free chocolate chips for an entirely vegan dessert. Just ensure to check the label for any added sugars that may alter the final flavor.

For those avoiding gluten, both the crispy rice cereal and nuts are gluten-free, but make sure to double-check labels if you are gluten-sensitive. If you’d like to incorporate different fruits, feel free to experiment with raspberries or bananas, which also pair wonderfully with the chocolate, adding a different flavor dynamic while keeping the recipe fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but keep in mind that it will alter the richness.

→ How long can I store these cups?

These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make these cups vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream to create a delicious vegan version.

→ What other fruits can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile!