Chocolate covered strawberries are a classic and elegant treat that are surprisingly simple to make at home. This step-by-step guide will show you how to prepare them perfectly, along with ideas for toppings and instructions for making a beautiful DIY strawberry bouquet.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces (285 g) Ghirardelli Baking Chips, bittersweet, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, stems attached
Instructions
1. Wash and Dry the Strawberries
Begin by washing the strawberries under cool water. Dry them very well using paper towels. It is essential that the strawberries are completely dry because chocolate and water do not mix. Even a small amount of moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking properly.
2. Prepare the Toppings
If you want to add toppings, place a handful of crushed nuts, shredded coconut, crushed cookies, or sprinkles on separate small plates. Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to place the dipped strawberries on later.
3. Melt the Chocolate
You can melt the chocolate in a microwave or with a double boiler.
- For the microwave method, heat the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until fully melted and smooth.
- For the double boiler method, place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir the chocolate until melted. Be careful not to let the chocolate burn.
4. Dip the Strawberries
Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate. Lift and twist slightly to allow the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the strawberry on the parchment-lined sheet. If you are using toppings, dip or sprinkle them onto the chocolate while it is still wet.
5. Add White Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
If you wish to add a decorative drizzle, melt some white chocolate. Dip a fork into the melted white chocolate and drizzle it lightly over the dipped strawberries.
6. Chill Until Set
Place the tray of strawberries in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened completely.
Topping Ideas
- Crushed almonds or hazelnuts for a nutty crunch
- Toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor
- Crushed cookies or graham crackers for extra sweetness
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for a festive touch
- A combination of dark and white chocolate for an elegant look
DIY Strawberry Bouquet
To make a strawberry bouquet, insert wooden skewers into the bottom of each chocolate covered strawberry. Arrange them in a vase, mug, or floral foam to resemble a flower bouquet. Wrap with tissue paper or ribbon for a decorative finish. This makes a perfect gift for occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries.
Notes
Bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate works best because it balances the natural sweetness of strawberries, but milk chocolate is also delicious. Always make sure the strawberries are dry and dip them in any toppings immediately after coating them with chocolate so they stick well.
Nutrition Information (Per Strawberry)
Calories: 40 kcal
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fat: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 2 mg
Potassium: 71 mg
Vitamin C: 17.8 mg
Calcium: 11 mg
Iron: 0.3 mg
FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for making chocolate covered strawberries?
The best chocolate for making chocolate covered strawberries is high-quality baking chocolate such as Ghirardelli or another brand made specifically for melting. Bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate is often preferred because it complements the sweetness of the strawberries, but milk chocolate works well if you like a sweeter flavor.
White chocolate can also be used for drizzle or decoration. Avoid using chocolate chips meant for cookies, as they contain stabilizers that make melting more difficult.
How do I make sure the chocolate sticks to the strawberries?
The key to getting the chocolate to stick is to ensure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping. Any moisture will cause the chocolate to slide off or not adhere properly. After washing, pat each strawberry thoroughly with a paper towel and let them air dry for at least 10–15 minutes before dipping.
How long do chocolate covered strawberries last?
Chocolate covered strawberries are best eaten within 24 hours for the freshest taste and appearance. If you need to store them, keep them in a single layer in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. Store them in the refrigerator, but allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out the best flavor and texture.
Can I make chocolate covered strawberries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chocolate covered strawberries a few hours in advance. After dipping and letting the chocolate set, store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. Avoid making them too far ahead, as the strawberries can release moisture over time, which may cause the chocolate to soften or separate.
What toppings can I use for extra flavor and decoration?
You can use a variety of toppings to add flavor and texture to your chocolate covered strawberries. Popular choices include crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios, shredded coconut, crushed cookies, graham cracker crumbs, or sprinkles.
For a more elegant touch, drizzle with white chocolate or decorate with edible gold dust. Always add toppings immediately after dipping while the chocolate is still wet so they stick properly.
