1. Introduction – A Light and Indulgent Valentine’s Treat
Chocolate mousse is a classic dessert, but this vegan version makes it even more special by using simple plant-based ingredients while maintaining the rich, creamy texture. Adding fresh strawberries gives it a fruity twist, making it perfect for Valentine’s Day or any occasion where you want a light yet indulgent treat.
Craving a rich and creamy dessert without the dairy? This vegan chocolate mousse with a strawberry twist is the perfect decadent yet guilt-free treat for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
Made with silky smooth plant-based ingredients like coconut cream or avocado, this mousse is light, airy, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor. The sweet and tangy strawberry layer adds a fresh, fruity contrast, making every spoonful irresistible.
This mousse is dairy-free, egg-free, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner, a party, or just for yourself, this dessert is sure to impress.
Let’s get started!
2. Ingredients – What You’ll Need
For the mousse:
- 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the strawberry twist:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the toppings:
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Dairy-free whipped cream
- Dark chocolate shavings
- Crushed nuts (optional)
These ingredients create a creamy, chocolatey mousse with a refreshing strawberry contrast.
3. Preparing the Chocolate Mousse Base
Step 1: Melting the chocolate
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dairy-free dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave.
- Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Whipping the coconut milk
- Scoop out the solid part of the chilled coconut milk, leaving behind the liquid.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the coconut cream until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Combining the ingredients
- Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped coconut cream.
- Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
This mixture should be smooth and airy, ready to chill.
4. Preparing the Strawberry Twist
Step 1: Making the strawberry purée
- In a blender or food processor, blend fresh strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice until smooth.
Step 2: Swirling into the mousse
- Pour a spoonful of the strawberry purée into each serving cup.
- Add the chocolate mousse on top, then gently swirl with a spoon for a marbled effect.
This creates a beautiful layered look and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
5. Chilling and Setting the Mousse
Step 1: Letting the mousse firm up
- Cover the mousse cups with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Chilling enhances the texture, making it thick and creamy.
6. Decorating and Serving the Mousse
Step 1: Adding toppings
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices for extra fruitiness.
- Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.
- Top with dairy-free whipped cream for added creaminess.
Step 2: Serving suggestions
- Serve in elegant glass cups for a fancy look.
- Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or coffee for a perfect dessert experience.
Presentation makes the mousse even more enjoyable.

7. Storing and Making Ahead
How to store:
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as the texture may change.
How to make ahead:
- Prepare the mousse a day in advance and store covered until ready to serve.
Proper storage keeps the mousse fresh and creamy.
8. Fun Variations to Try
Nutty Chocolate Mousse
- Stir in 2 tablespoons almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Espresso Chocolate Mousse
- Add ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder for a mocha twist.
Coconut Berry Mousse
- Use blended raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries.
Mint Chocolate Mousse
- Stir in ½ teaspoon peppermint extract for a refreshing taste.
These variations allow you to customize the mousse to your liking.
9. Conclusion – A Decadent and Guilt-Free Dessert
Vegan chocolate mousse with a strawberry twist is the perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy texture, and fruity freshness. It’s easy to make, naturally sweetened, and free from dairy or eggs, making it a guilt-free treat for any occasion.
Whether serving it for Valentine’s Day, a dinner party, or just a personal indulgence, this mousse will impress with its flavor and presentation. So grab your ingredients, whip up some magic, and enjoy a delicious homemade dessert!

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Mousse with a Strawberry Twist
Ingredients
For the mousse:
- 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the strawberry twist:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the toppings:
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Dairy-free whipped cream
- Dark chocolate shavings
- Crushed nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Chocolate Mousse Base
Step 1: Melting the chocolate
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dairy-free dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave.
- Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Whipping the coconut milk
- Scoop out the solid part of the chilled coconut milk, leaving behind the liquid.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the coconut cream until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Combining the ingredients
- Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped coconut cream.
- Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
This mixture should be smooth and airy, ready to chill.
4. Preparing the Strawberry Twist
Step 1: Making the strawberry purée
- In a blender or food processor, blend fresh strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice until smooth.
Step 2: Swirling into the mousse
- Pour a spoonful of the strawberry purée into each serving cup.
- Add the chocolate mousse on top, then gently swirl with a spoon for a marbled effect.
This creates a beautiful layered look and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
5. Chilling and Setting the Mousse
Step 1: Letting the mousse firm up
- Cover the mousse cups with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Chilling enhances the texture, making it thick and creamy.
6. Decorating and Serving the Mousse
Step 1: Adding toppings
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices for extra fruitiness.
- Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.
- Top with dairy-free whipped cream for added creaminess.
Step 2: Serving suggestions
- Serve in elegant glass cups for a fancy look.
- Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or coffee for a perfect dessert experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, agave syrup, coconut sugar, or date syrup work well as substitutes.
2. How do I make the mousse firmer?
Refrigerate it for an extra hour or add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for more thickness.
3. Can I use another plant-based milk instead of coconut milk?
Full-fat coconut milk works best, but cashew cream or oat milk creamer can be used.
4. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid before blending.
5. How do I make the mousse fluffier?
Whip the coconut cream longer for more airiness.
6. Can I turn this into a chocolate-strawberry parfait?
Yes, layer the mousse with granola or crushed cookies for extra texture.
7. Can I add chia seeds to this recipe?
Yes, mix in 1 tablespoon chia seeds for a pudding-like texture.
8. How do I prevent the mousse from being too bitter?
Use semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a milder taste.
9. Can I make this mousse keto-friendly?
Yes, use a sugar-free sweetener and dark chocolate with 85% cocoa or higher.
10. What’s the best way to serve this for a party?
Serve in mini cups with small spoons for an elegant dessert platter.