Get ready to delight your taste buds with these exquisite Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups! This no-bake dessert is a true showstopper, combining the silky richness of chocolate mousse with a bright, tangy cherry compote. Whether you're planning a special occasion or simply craving an elegant sweet treat, these individual servings are surprisingly easy to create and guarantee a memorable dessert experience.
Forget complicated baking techniques; our Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups are all about simple steps and incredible flavor. The contrast between the deep chocolate and the fruity burst of cherries creates a harmonious balance that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Dive into this guide and discover how effortlessly you can whip up this stunning dessert!
Why You'll Adore This Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups Recipe
These Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups aren't just delicious; they're a dream to make and a joy to eat. Here's why this recipe will become a fast favorite:
- No-Bake Brilliance: Skip the oven! This dessert requires no baking, making it perfect for hot days or when you want a quick, impressive treat.
- Decadent Flavors: The combination of smooth, rich chocolate and sweet-tart cherries is a classic for a reason, offering a sophisticated taste experience.
- Effortlessly Elegant: Served in individual cups, they look incredibly fancy but are remarkably simple to assemble. Ideal for dinner parties or a romantic dessert.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness or add extra flavor notes like almond extract or orange zest to make it your own.
Essential Ingredients for Your Mousse Cups
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards these delightful dessert cups. You'll need just a few simple items to create both the velvety mousse and the luscious compote.
For the Chocolate Mousse:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cherry Compote:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For the Assembly:
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)

How to Craft Your Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups
Follow these straightforward steps to assemble your delicious no-bake dessert.
Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:
- Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a large, chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture until stiff peaks form. For tips on achieving perfect stiff peaks, check out this guide on whipping cream to perfection.
- Step 3: Gently fold the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream. Use a spatula and fold until no streaks of cream remain and the mixture is uniformly combined. Be careful not to deflate the mousse.
- Step 4: Divide the chocolate mousse evenly among your individual serving cups or glasses. Place them in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the compote.
Prepare the Cherry Compote:
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the pitted and chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir thoroughly until the cornstarch is dissolved and all ingredients are well mixed.
- Step 2: Bring the cherry mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for approximately 5 minutes, or until the compote has visibly thickened.
- Step 4: Remove the compote from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Assemble the Mousse Cups:
- Step 1: Once the cherry compote has cooled, spoon it evenly over the chilled chocolate mousse in each serving cup.
- Step 2: (Optional) Top each mousse cup with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and garnish with a fresh cherry or two.
- Step 3: For best results, chill the assembled Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up further. Enjoy your indulgent creation!
Tips for Mousse Cup Success
Here are a few pointers to ensure your Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups turn out perfectly every time:
- Chill Your Tools: For the fluffiest mousse, chill your mixing bowl and whisk for 10-15 minutes before whipping the heavy cream.
- Gentle Folding: When combining the chocolate with the whipped cream, use a light, folding motion with a spatula to maintain the airy texture of the mousse.
- Cool Compote: Ensure your cherry compote has cooled down a bit before layering it over the mousse. Spooning hot compote onto cold mousse could affect the texture.
Variations & Customizations
Feel free to get creative with your mousse cups!
- Chocolate Type: Experiment with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder mousse.
- Fruit Alternatives: Not a fan of cherries? Raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry compote would also be delightful.
- Flavor Boosts: Add a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the compote for an adult twist, or a hint of almond extract to either the mousse or compote.
These Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups are more than just a dessert; they're an experience. With their simple preparation and luxurious taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Don't hesitate to share your creations and enjoy every single delightful bite!
FAQs
Can Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups be prepared in advance?
Yes, these mousse cups are excellent for making ahead! You can store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This makes them perfect for entertaining or meal prepping your desserts.
What type of chocolate is best for the mousse?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended for a balanced flavor, but you can experiment with dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, or milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder mousse.
Can I use frozen cherries for the compote?
Absolutely! If fresh cherries are not in season or available, frozen pitted cherries work perfectly for the compote. There's no need to thaw them before cooking; just proceed with the recipe as written.
How do I ensure my whipped cream forms stiff peaks?
For the best results, make sure your heavy cream and mixing bowl are very cold. You can even chill your whisk attachment. Whip at medium-high speed until the cream holds its shape firmly when the whisk is lifted.

Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cups
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luxurious no-bake dessert featuring smooth chocolate mousse layered with a vibrant, tangy cherry compote, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup water
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: In a large, chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Gently fold the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream until fully combined, being careful not to deflate the mousse.
Step 4: Divide the chocolate mousse evenly among individual serving cups or glasses. Place in the refrigerator.
Step 5: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Mix well.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Step 7: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the compote has thickened. Let it cool slightly.
Step 8: Spoon the cooled cherry compote evenly over the chocolate mousse in each cup.
Step 9: (Optional) Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh cherries.
Step 10: Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and mousse to set. Enjoy!
Notes
For the best mousse, ensure your heavy cream and mixing bowl are very cold before whipping. Gently fold the chocolate to maintain the airy texture. Allow adequate chilling time for the mousse to set properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg