Chocolate Strawberry Party Dessert

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Party Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 pre-made pound cake, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Decadent Desserts

I absolutely adore making desserts that impress, and this Chocolate Strawberry Party Dessert never fails to steal the show. With its rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh, juicy strawberries, it's a match made in heaven. I love the simplicity of this dessert, as it combines ingredients I always have on hand. Plus, it’s a delightful treat that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for parties or special gatherings. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:49:36.062Z

When I first experimented with this Chocolate Strawberry Party Dessert, I was looking for a way to bring together two of my favorite ingredients: chocolate and strawberries. After trying several combinations, I realized that the key was to not overcomplicate it. The balance of creamy chocolate ganache against the fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast that everyone loves. I remember one gathering where this dessert truly shined; guests raved about how the flavors complemented each other perfectly.

One detail that I found enhances the experience is letting the dessert chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving. This helps the ganache set just right and makes for easy slicing. It’s such a simple tip, but it elevates the presentation and taste, making every slice a bit more indulgent. If you’re looking to impress at your next party, this dessert is definitely the way to go!

Why You'll Love This Dessert
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy ganache that satisfies sweet cravings
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Chocolate Ganache Technique

When preparing the chocolate ganache, it's crucial to heat the heavy cream just until it simmers; avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate and yield a grainy texture. Once removed from the heat, adding the chopped chocolate and butter will create a silky mixture. The resting period of five minutes allows the chocolate to soften properly before stirring, resulting in a velvety ganache that glides smoothly over the cake layer, enhancing the overall richness of the dessert.

If you desire a sweeter ganache, feel free to adjust the amount of chocolate. Using milk chocolate will create a sweeter and creamier ganache, perfect for those who prefer a milder chocolate flavor. Alternatively, for a darker variation, opt for bittersweet chocolate to amplify the rich chocolate notes. Remember, the temperature and quality of the chocolate can greatly influence the final product, so choosing a high-quality chocolate will ensure an exquisite taste.

Strawberry Preparation and Layering

Properly prepping the strawberries is essential for achieving a balanced flavor in the dessert. By hulking and slicing the strawberries, you not only make them easier to layer, but you also maximize their surface area for better sugar absorption. Allowing them to sit for about ten minutes after adding the sugar helps release their juices, creating a light syrup that will soak into the cake layers as well, enhancing moisture and flavor.

When assembling the dessert, ensure that the pound cake slices fit snugly together, creating a sturdy base for the ganache and strawberries. This layer acts as a sponge, soaking up the delicious juices and ganache. If you're concerned about the cake becoming too soggy, consider using a denser cake or adjusting the amount of strawberry juices. Keep an eye on the layering when assembling; you want to achieve visible layers that hold their shape yet meld together beautifully upon serving.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon butter

For the Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

For Assembly

1 pre-made pound cake, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and fully combined.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Assemble the Dessert

In a serving dish, layer the pound cake slices at the bottom. Then pour half of the chocolate ganache over the cake, followed by half of the marinated strawberries. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Chill and Serve

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try drizzling some melted white chocolate over the top before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Strawberry Party Dessert can easily be prepared a day in advance. After assembling, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The resting time allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even more decadent dessert. Just remember, it's best consumed within two days for optimal freshness, as the strawberries can release excess moisture over time.

If you need to scale up the recipe for a bigger gathering, doubling the ingredients is straightforward. Simply ensure that your serving dish can accommodate the additional layers, and adjust the chilling time accordingly, as larger portions may take longer to set. However, I suggest preparing each component separately and assembling them just before serving to maintain the texture and flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the individual layers in small dessert cups or jars. This not only makes for a stunning visual but also allows guests to enjoy their own portion. You can also layer the ganache and strawberries with crushed cookies or nuts for an added crunch, giving a delightful textural contrast to the soft layers.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Raspberries or blueberries can provide a lovely tartness that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you’re looking for a twist, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries will enhance their sweetness while introducing a subtle complexity to the flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate will give a richer flavor to the ganache.

→ How long can this dessert be stored?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered.

→ Can I make this dessert vegan?

You can use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate for a vegan option.

→ What's the best way to slice the dessert?

Use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water before slicing to get cleaner cuts.