Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Name: Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for extra shine)

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Growing up, I always looked forward to dessert, and chocolate covered strawberries were one of my favorites. The combination of ripe strawberries and rich chocolate creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. I discovered that the key to achieving that perfect glossy finish is to ensure the strawberries are dry before dipping. It’s a simple yet luxurious dessert that never fails to impress, and I love that it can be made in just minutes with minimal ingredients!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:25:34.783Z

When I first tried making chocolate covered strawberries, it felt like a culinary masterpiece. I learned that using high-quality chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also affects the texture. This is why I always opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate, as it perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries. The first bite, with the tender fruit and the silky chocolate, is something I never tire of.

One tip I've found invaluable is to temper the chocolate. It may sound intimidating, but by gently heating and cooling the chocolate, you achieve that beautiful glossy finish that makes these strawberries look as good as they taste. Trust me, it's worth the extra few minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Easy to make and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
Perfectly sweet and satisfying without being overwhelming

      

The Importance of Strawberry Preparation

When preparing strawberries for chocolate dipping, proper washing and drying are vital. Any residual moisture will prevent the chocolate from adhering smoothly, resulting in an uneven finish. After rinsing, gently blot the strawberries with paper towels. You can also let them air dry for a few minutes to ensure maximum dryness. This ensures a shiny, professional-looking finish once the chocolate has set.

Additionally, using strawberries at room temperature, rather than cold from the fridge, will help the chocolate set better. Cold strawberries can cause the chocolate to harden too quickly upon contact, leading to a poor coating. Allow the strawberries to sit out for about 15–20 minutes before dipping.

Dipping Techniques for Success

Dipping strawberries in chocolate may seem straightforward, but the technique can impact your results. When you dip, ensure that the chocolate is smooth and glossy, which indicates it's well melted. If it begins to thicken before you finish dipping, you can return it to the microwave for a few seconds. Dipping just three-quarters of the strawberry can create a stunning visual contrast, showcasing the vibrant red color against the dark chocolate.

It's helpful to twist the strawberry gently as you lift it out of the chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This technique minimizes pooling of chocolate on the baking sheet, resulting in a more polished final look. If you want to get creative, consider topping the chocolate-dipped strawberries with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After dipping, if you're not serving the strawberries immediately, it's important to store them properly. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Avoid stacking them to preserve their appearance. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but for the best taste and texture, serve them on the same day they’re made.

These chocolate-covered strawberries are versatile and can be served as a decadent dessert, a part of a charcuterie board, or as a sweet snack. You can also mix things up by infusing the chocolate with flavors such as peppermint extract or citrus zest for a unique twist. For those watching their sugar intake, sugar-free chocolate chips work as a fantastic substitute, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to create these delectable treats:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for extra shine)

Ensure that the strawberries are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chocolate covered strawberries:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil if using. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the Strawberries

Rinse the strawberries under cold water and thoroughly dry them with paper towels. It's essential that the strawberries are completely dry for the chocolate to adhere properly.

Dip the Strawberries

Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place the dipped strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Set the Chocolate

Allow the chocolate-covered strawberries to sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, about 15-30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can refrigerate them for faster setting.

Serve and Enjoy

Once hardened, serve the strawberries immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

These are best enjoyed fresh, but trust me, they'll be gone before you need to worry about storage!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, try drizzling melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate for a beautiful contrast.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, simply use high-quality dairy-free chocolate chips. There are many varieties available that melt beautifully and maintain a rich flavor. You can also experiment with using dark or white chocolate to cater to different taste preferences. For a healthier twist, consider using a dark chocolate with a high cacao percentage for a more intense flavor and less sugar.

If coconut oil is not available, you can also use shortening to achieve a similar glossy finish. This will help in giving the chocolate a smooth consistency while making the chocolate coating easier to work with. Additionally, feel free to use fresh fruits like bananas or apple slices in place of strawberries for an alternative treat that still satisfies that chocolate craving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making chocolate-covered strawberries is the chocolate seizing. This occurs when moisture gets into the chocolate, causing it to become grainy and hard. To prevent this, ensure that all your tools and bowls are completely dry before use. If you do encounter seized chocolate, sometimes adding a small amount of vegetable oil can salvage the batch by smoothing it out.

Another potential pitfall is the chocolate not adhering properly to the strawberries. If you notice the chocolate sliding off after dipping, it’s likely because the strawberries were not dried thoroughly, or they were cold. You can fix this by reheating the chocolate slightly, but keep it smooth and fluid, and ensure your strawberries are completely dry before another attempt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, milk chocolate works well, but it may be sweeter. Adjust according to your taste.

→ How can I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

Make sure the bowl and utensils are completely dry and avoid any water contact when melting the chocolate.

→ Can I freeze chocolate covered strawberries?

Yes, but it's best to consume them fresh. If freezing, place them in a single layer on a tray before transferring them to a container.

→ What's the best type of chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is recommended for a delicious balance with the strawberries.