How to Make Delicious Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate covered strawberries are without a doubt one of the best desserts to make at home. They are simple, beautiful, and delicious. Whether you’re making a batch for your Valentine’s Day date, a birthday party, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a must-try. With only a few ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that will leave your taste buds wanting more!

Firstly, gather your ingredients: fresh strawberries, chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white), and coconut oil (or vegetable shortening). Ensure your strawberries are clean and dry before starting. The key to a successful chocolate covered strawberry is temperature control. Melt your chocolate in a double boiler or a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If you choose to use coconut oil, add a teaspoon to the chocolate while melting. This will help to create a smooth and silky texture. Once the chocolate is melted, holding the stem of each strawberry, dip it into the chocolate mixture and rotate it to ensure that it is completely coated. Place the strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet and repeat until you have coated all of your strawberries.

Ingredients needed for chocolate covered strawberries

Chocolate covered strawberries are a simple and elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating an anniversary, or just craving something sweet, these delicious treats are sure to hit the spot. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1. Fresh strawberries: The star of the show! Be sure to choose plump, ripe berries that are free from bruises or blemishes. Avoid berries that are too small or too large, as they can be difficult to handle.

2. Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the best results. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your personal preference. The chocolate should be chopped into small pieces.

3. Coconut oil: This is optional, but it can help thin out the chocolate and make it easier to work with. Use about one tablespoon of coconut oil per cup of chocolate.

4. Toppings: You can add toppings to your chocolate covered strawberries to give them a little extra pizzazz. Popular options include sprinkles, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut.

Preparation steps

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make chocolate covered strawberries:

1. Wash and dry the strawberries: Rinse the berries under cool running water and pat them dry with paper towels. Be sure to handle them gently to avoid bruising.

2. Prepare the chocolate: Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. Add coconut oil if desired and stir until smooth.

3. Dip the strawberries: Holding onto the leaves or stem, dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Place the strawberries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Add toppings: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your desired toppings over the strawberries. You can also drizzle the strawberries with additional melted chocolate for a fancier look.

5. Let the strawberries cool: Once you’ve finished dipping and decorating all of your strawberries, let them cool at room temperature until the chocolate sets. This should take about 30 minutes.

6. Enjoy! Once the chocolate has hardened, your chocolate covered strawberries are ready to be devoured. Serve them on a platter or in a decorative box for a beautiful presentation.

Tips and tricks for making perfect chocolate covered strawberries

– Use fresh strawberries: The fresher the better! Avoid using berries that are overripe or mushy.

– Keep the berries dry: Moisture can cause the chocolate to seize up, so be sure to dry the berries thoroughly before dipping.

– Use good quality chocolate: High-quality chocolate will yield a better flavor and texture than cheaper options.

– Add coconut oil for a smoother texture: If you’re having trouble working with the chocolate, try adding a tablespoon of coconut oil per cup of chocolate to help thin it out.

– Use a double boiler: If you have one, a double boiler is the best way to melt chocolate. This method will ensure that the chocolate doesn’t burn or seize up.

– Keep the chocolate warm: If the chocolate starts to harden while you’re dipping the strawberries, simply reheat it in the microwave or over a double boiler.

– Be creative with toppings: There are endless topping options for chocolate covered strawberries! Get creative and try different combinations like crushed Oreos, mini chocolate chips, or even edible gold leaf.

– Store in the fridge: Chocolate covered strawberries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

– Serve at room temperature: Be sure to take the strawberries out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature.

Gathering Ingredients and Equipment

Before you start making chocolate covered strawberries, you’ll need to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Fresh Strawberries

The first ingredient you’ll need is fresh strawberries. It’s important to choose strawberries that are ripe and firm. Avoid strawberries that are soft, mushy, or have bruises. The size of the strawberries doesn’t really matter, but make sure they are all about the same size for an attractive presentation.

Quality Chocolate

The most essential ingredient in making chocolate covered strawberries is, of course, the chocolate. You’ll want to choose high-quality chocolate that has a high percentage of cocoa butter. This will make the chocolate smoother and easier to work with.

Sugar

Sugar is used to sweeten the chocolate and balance its bitterness. You can use granulated sugar, powdered sugar, or even brown sugar. Be sure to use the sugar according to your taste preference.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream is used to give chocolate its velvety texture. You can substitute it with milk or light cream, but heavy cream is recommended for best results.

Butter

Butter is added to the chocolate to give it a more buttery and creamy taste and texture. Make sure the butter is unsalted.

Double Boiler or Microwave

There are two ways to melt chocolate: using a double boiler or a microwave. If you use a double boiler, you’ll need a saucepan and a heatproof bowl. If you use a microwave, you’ll need a microwave-safe bowl.

Parchment Paper and Baking Sheet

You’ll need parchment paper to place your chocolate-covered strawberries on. A baking sheet is also necessary for cooling the chocolate once it’s been coated on the strawberries.

Toothpicks or Skewers

To make dipping the strawberries in the chocolate easier and less messy, use toothpicks or skewers. Make sure they are long enough to pierce the strawberries and for easy handling.

Bowl and Whisk or Electric Mixer

Use a bowl and whisk or electric mixer to combine the heavy cream, sugar, and butter for the chocolate sauce. A whisk is recommended for this step because it can mix the sauce uniformly.

Cooling Rack

After coating your strawberries in chocolate, place them on a cooling rack to prevent them from sticking together. A cooling rack will also allow the extra chocolate to drip away, leaving a smooth finish on the strawberries.

Choosing the Right Chocolate and Strawberries

1. Chocolate Selection

When it comes to making chocolate-covered strawberries, selecting the right chocolate is key to its success. You can opt for either milk, dark or white chocolate. Milk chocolate is a sweeter and creamier alternative, whilst dark chocolate is a more intense and bitter flavour. White chocolate does not contain cocoa solids and is known for its creaminess and sweetness. To achieve a smooth, velvety texture, it is important to use baking chocolate or high-quality chocolate chips. Avoid using chocolate bars since they will not melt easily or be as smooth.

2. Strawberry Selection

Choose strawberries that are ripe and firm to the touch, with no bruises or spots. It’s best to pick strawberries that are in season, as they are sweeter and juicier. Make sure to wash your strawberries thoroughly and let them air dry before dipping. It is also important to note that the stem should be left on the strawberry as a handle to make it easier to dip.

3. Preparation before Dipping

Preparing your strawberries before dipping them in chocolate is important for optimal results. Make sure the strawberries are completely dry as moisture can cause the chocolate to seize up and become lumpy. Lay out some wax paper or parchment paper to place your dipped strawberries on after the chocolate has been applied. You can also chill your strawberries in the refrigerator to minimize the melting of the chocolate.

4. Melting the Chocolate

To properly melt the chocolate, use a double boiler or a microwave. If using a double boiler, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and stir occasionally until it melts. If using a microwave, place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval until melted and smooth.

5. Dipping and Decorating

Once your chocolate is melted and your strawberries are prepared, it’s time to dip and decorate! Use a skewer or toothpick to hold the strawberry by the stem while dipping it into the melted chocolate. Rotate the strawberry to cover it completely in chocolate and let any excess drip off. You can also sprinkle toppings on top of the chocolate-coated strawberries such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut. After decorating, place the strawberries onto the prepared wax or parchment paper and let them sit until the chocolate is hardened.

Enjoy your Delicious Chocolate Covered Strawberries!

There you have it – you’re now a pro at making chocolate covered strawberries! These treats are perfect for special occasions or just when you feel like indulging in a sweet snack. Thanks for reading and I hope you found this guide helpful. Remember, practice makes perfect so don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate and toppings. And most importantly, have fun with it! Be sure to come back soon for more delicious recipes and tips. Happy snacking!