Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Date Syrup

Name: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup With Date Syrup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate; 100ml heavy cream; 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 2 tablespoons date syrup; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); Extra strawberries; Mint leaves

Highlighted under: Sugar Bliss

I love creating desserts that not only taste amazing but also look beautiful. This Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup with Date Syrup combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and a luxurious drizzle of date syrup. The layers of flavors and textures make this treat perfect for any occasion, whether it's a celebration or just a sweet indulgence for yourself. After trying various combinations, I found that the delicate balance of chocolate and fruit truly shines in this recipe, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:52:13.334Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled across the idea of combining chocolate, strawberries, and date syrup. It was a revelation! The date syrup, with its rich caramel notes, perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite a taste of paradise. I remembered visiting Dubai and tasting their unique desserts, which inspired me to recreate that experience at home.

Getting the layers right was a challenge, but I discovered that cooling the chocolate mixture slightly before assembling the cups allowed it to set without becoming too thick. This little trick made all the difference in achieving a luscious consistency. Trust me, this dessert is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Decadent texture with a touch of sweetness from date syrup
Stunning presentation makes it perfect for entertaining

Understanding Chocolate Tempering

Tempering the chocolate is a crucial step to ensure that your chocolate cups have a beautiful sheen and a satisfying snap. When melting chocolate, use a double boiler method, with water just simmering in the pot below. Keep the heat low and stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy. If your chocolate begins to seize or looks grainy, remove it from the heat immediately and add a small amount of vegetable oil to help smooth it out.

Once your chocolate is melted, it's vital to let it cool slightly before pouring it into the molds. If the chocolate is too hot when poured, it can cause the silicone to warp, and the cups may not hold their shape. Aim for a temperature of around 85°F (30°C) before applying to the molds for the best results. A well-tempered chocolate will not only look great but also resist melting in warmer temperatures.

Working with Fresh Strawberries

Choosing the right strawberries is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in this dessert. Opt for ripe, seasonal strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid overripe or mushy berries which can lead to a watery filling. When preparing your strawberries, hulled and halved berries will soak up the date syrup better, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. If you're making this dessert in advance, you can prep the strawberries the day before and store them in a covered container in the fridge.

If you’re looking to reduce sugar, the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries complemented by the date syrup is often enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. However, if you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to add the optional tablespoon of sugar. Remember that too much sugar can draw moisture from the strawberries, so add it carefully to maintain texture and taste.

Presentation Tips for Your Dessert

Presentation plays a key role in elevating your Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups. For an impressive touch, consider using a squeeze bottle to drizzle the date syrup artfully around the plates before placing the chocolate cups on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor as guests indulge in the dessert.

Don't hesitate to experiment with garnishes! Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and sweet strawberries. You can also sprinkle some cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor. These small touches can transform a simple dessert into a stunning centerpiece.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cups

200g dark chocolate
100ml heavy cream

For the Filling

300g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
2 tablespoons date syrup
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

For Garnish

Extra strawberries
Mint leaves

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor experience!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate with heavy cream over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth.

Create the Cups

Using a spoon, coat the inside of silicone cupcake molds with the melted chocolate mixture, allowing it to set for about 10 minutes in the fridge.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh strawberries with date syrup and optional sugar. Gently toss to coat the strawberries.

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate cups have set, carefully remove them from the molds. Fill each cup with the strawberry mixture.

Garnish and Serve

Top each cup with extra strawberries and a mint leaf for garnish. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

These delightful cups are best served chilled. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a unique flavor twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These chocolate strawberry cups can be made in advance, making them an excellent option for parties or special occasions. After assembling the cups, cover them gently with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just remember that the strawberries may release some moisture over time, so it's best to keep them covered until just before serving.

If you want to prepare components ahead of time, you can make the chocolate cups and store them at room temperature in an airtight container. The chocolate will stay firm, and this helps maintain the integrity of the cups. Prepare the strawberry filling on the day of serving for optimal freshness, incorporating the date syrup just before filling each cup.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you're planning to serve a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. For example, if you're doubling the recipe, consider using larger silicone molds to simplify serving and ensure even filling. You might also want to invest in a larger bowl for melting the chocolate or a bigger pot for the double boiler method to maintain efficiency during preparation.

When scaling up, ensure you watch the chocolate carefully while melting, as larger quantities may take longer to reach the desired consistency. Additionally, when making more filling, try to maintain the balance of strawberries and date syrup. Adjust the sweetness according to your preferences as you increase the volume, ensuring that each cup remains delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will create a sweeter flavor profile.

→ How long can I store these chocolate cups?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I replace strawberries with another fruit?

Absolutely! Raspberries or blueberries are great alternatives.

→ Is date syrup healthy?

Date syrup is a natural sweetener that provides essential nutrients and fiber.