Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped; Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

When I first tried making the Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait, I was amazed by how simple yet indulgent it was. The airy fluffiness combined with the tartness of fresh strawberries creates an irresistible dessert that I enjoy any time of the year. With just a few basic ingredients, I can whip up this treat in under 30 minutes, impressing friends and family with its elegant layers. The best part is watching their faces light up with the first spoonful, knowing they are about to experience pure bliss.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:47:36.669Z

Last summer, I stumbled upon this delightful dessert at a picnic, and I couldn't resist trying to recreate it at home. I found that using high-quality cocoa powder and fresh strawberries significantly elevated the flavor. Each layer of fluffy chocolate mousse combined with the vibrant strawberries offers a delightful contrast, making every bite a celebration of taste and texture.

One specific tip that I learned was to chill the mixing bowl before whipping the cream. This simple step ensures that the cream beats up perfectly, leading to a light, airy fluff that creates the luxurious mouthfeel we all love in a parfait. Trust me, it makes a noticeable difference!

        What You'll Love
        Luxuriously smooth chocolate mousse
Fresh, juicy strawberries add a natural sweetness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute desserts

      

Mastering the Chocolate Mousse

The chocolate mousse is the star of the Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait, and achieving the perfect texture is key. When whipping the heavy cream, make sure your bowl and beaters are cold; this helps the cream reach stiff peaks faster and enhances the overall volume. For best results, I recommend using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, then gradually increase to high speed after adding the cocoa powder and sugar.

Cocoa powder adds a rich flavor, but not all cocoa is created equal. For a deeper taste, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa, which has a smoother texture and a more intense chocolate flavor. If you prefer a slightly sweeter mousse, feel free to adjust the powdered sugar to your liking, but be cautious; too much sweetness can overpower the richness of the chocolate.

Perfecting the Parfait Layers

When layering your parfait, the key is to be gentle to maintain the lightness of the mousse. Use a small spatula or a spoon to carefully spread the mousse along the sides of your serving glasses, creating an attractive visual effect. This careful layering not only enhances the presentation but allows you to enjoy the contrast of textures between the smooth mousse and juicy strawberries with each bite.

Choosing the right strawberries is crucial for this dessert. Look for berries that are firm and vibrant red, as they will lend a fresh sweetness that beautifully complements the rich chocolate. If strawberries are out of season, consider substituting with other berries like raspberries or a mix of seasonal fruits. Just remember that the tartness of the berries should balance out the sweetness of the mousse.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait:

For the Chocolate Mousse

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Parfait Assembly

2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish

Now that you have everything you need, let’s start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your parfait:

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until you achieve stiff peaks. Set aside.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses, start with a layer of the chocolate mousse. Then, add a layer of chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with chocolate mousse on top.

Garnish and Chill

Top with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an extra touch. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce over the strawberries before layering. It adds a delightful combination of rich and fruity goodness.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chocolate mousse a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and making assembly a breeze. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be aware that refrigeration can cause the mousse to firm up, so allow it to soften for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature before layering it with the strawberries.

As for the assembled parfaits, they can also be made ahead, but keep in mind that the strawberries may release juices over time. To prevent this, layer the strawberries just before serving or consider adding a thin layer of crushed cookies between the mousse and fruit for added texture and to create a barrier.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on presentation, consider using individual jars or small bowls instead of traditional glasses to serve your parfaits. This not only makes for cute, rustic serving options but also allows for customization; guests can add more strawberries or chocolate shavings according to their preferences.

You can elevate the parfaits even further by drizzling some chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving. Adding a sprig of fresh mint not only enhances the aesthetic but also adds a refreshing aroma that pairs beautifully with chocolate and strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before use.

→ How long can I store the parfaits?

These parfaits are best enjoyed the same day, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ What can I use instead of cocoa powder?

You could try using carob powder as a caffeine-free alternative, although the flavor will be different.