Hi, I’m Amanda. Cooking has always been more than just a daily task for me—it’s a way to create comfort, connection, and joy. Months ago, I pinned this recipe, convinced it looked too perfect to ever work in real life. One quiet evening, I finally tried it, half-expecting a mess. Instead, the kitchen filled with warmth, familiar smells, and a little pride when it turned out beautifully.
“If you’ve pinned this one too, give it a try and tell me if it became a keeper in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for chocolate covered strawberries is straightforward and dependable, making it easy for anyone to follow. The combination of fresh strawberries with smooth chocolate provides a balanced flavor that satisfies sweet cravings without being overly indulgent. It’s a practical dessert that can be prepared for gatherings, romantic dinners, or simply as a treat for yourself, embodying comfort and enjoyment in every bite.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork or dipping tool
Ingredients
- 1 pint Ripe strawberries (washed and dried)
- 10 oz Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers (smooth texture)
- 10 oz Ghirardelli white chocolate melting wafers (for Red, White, and Blue Variation; creamy flavor)
- 3 tbsp Blue sanding sugar sprinkles (for Red, White, and Blue Variation; adds crunch)
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Step 1. Begin by washing and thoroughly drying your ripe strawberries. It’s essential to ensure that they are completely dry because any moisture can prevent the melted chocolate from adhering properly. Pat them gently with paper towels, taking care not to bruise the fruit.
Step 2. Prepare your work surface by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial; the parchment will keep your chocolate covered strawberries from sticking, allowing for easy removal once they’re set.
Step 3. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers. Heat them in the microwave in short intervals, about 30 seconds at a time. Stir the chocolate after each burst of heat until it is smooth and fully melted.
Step 4. Once the dark chocolate is melted, take a strawberry by the stem and dip it into the chocolate. Swirl it gently to coat the fruit evenly, allowing the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This will help achieve a nice, even layer.
Step 5. After dipping, place the chocolate-coated strawberry onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining strawberries, working quickly before the chocolate begins to set.
Step 6. For the Red, White, and Blue Variation, melt the Ghirardelli white chocolate wafers in a separate bowl using the same method as the dark chocolate. Once melted, drizzle the white chocolate over the dark chocolate strawberries or dip a second layer for a beautiful two-toned effect.
Step 7. While the white chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the blue sanding sugar over the strawberries. This adds a festive touch and makes the strawberries perfect for patriotic holidays or special occasions.
Step 8. Allow the chocolate covered strawberries to sit at room temperature until the chocolate is completely set. If you want to expedite this process, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for a short time.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate covered strawberries are versatile and can be enjoyed anytime. They make a sweet ending to a casual family dinner or a luxurious addition to brunch. Serve them on a platter for parties or simply indulge in one as a snack. Leftovers can be enjoyed chilled from the fridge, where they maintain their flavor and texture admirably. They also make lovely gifts when packaged beautifully, showing how a simple treat can lift spirits and create connections.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh strawberries; the flavor and texture are key to the best experience.
- Make sure your strawberries are completely dry to help the chocolate adhere.
- Don’t rush melting the chocolate; stirring in between intervals ensures it stays smooth.
- For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate if you have the skills or desire.
- Experiment with the amount of chocolate by adjusting how much you dip each strawberry.
- Be creative with toppings for an extra personal touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet strawberries: If strawberries are not dried thoroughly, the chocolate won’t stick well, causing a mess. Make sure to pat them completely dry before dipping.
- Overheating the chocolate: Microwaving chocolate for too long can lead to burning. Always use short bursts of heat and stir often to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Not using parchment paper: Skipping this step can result in chocolate sticking to the baking sheet, making it difficult to remove. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Dipping cold strawberries: Chilled strawberries can cause the chocolate to seize. Let them come to room temperature to avoid this.
- Skipping toppings: Not adding sprinkles or nuts may leave the chocolate strawberries looking plain. A splash of toppings can enhance both appearance and texture, so feel free to explore.
- Not letting chocolate set properly: If you try to eat them too soon, the chocolate can be too soft. Allow ample time for the chocolate to harden completely before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider adding different toppings like chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or crushed cookies for a delightful twist. You can also use milk or white chocolate in addition to or instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. Creating chocolate stripes using both dark and white chocolate adds a lovely visual appeal. You can even color the white chocolate with food-safe colors for fun occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store chocolate covered strawberries at room temperature if they will be consumed in a day or two. If you need to keep them for longer, refrigerate them in a single layer in an airtight container. Do not freeze strawberries coated in chocolate, as this will alter their texture. If chilled, eat them cold to enjoy their freshness; however, let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chocolate covered strawberries a few hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, ideally in a single layer to avoid damage, and serve when ready.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Chocolate covered strawberries generally last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, they are best enjoyed fresh within the first day for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Freezing chocolate covered strawberries is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of both the chocolate and the strawberries. It’s best to consume them fresh or within a few days.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you don’t have Ghirardelli melting wafers, any high-quality chocolate chips can work as a substitute, though they may require slight adjustments in melting.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Common issues often arise from improper drying of the strawberries, overheating the chocolate, or skipping important steps. Following the instructions carefully can help ensure your chocolate covered strawberries turn out perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Making chocolate covered strawberries is a satisfying and enjoyable experience that brings a sweet reward at the end. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible for any occasion, and the end result is both beautiful and delicious. With a little care and attention to detail, you can create a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit. Knowing you’ve crafted something special adds to the joy of sharing these treats with others, creating warm moments and sweet memories together.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pint Ripe strawberries (washed and dried) Ensure strawberries are completely dry.
- 10 oz Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers Smooth texture for dipping.
- 10 oz Ghirardelli white chocolate melting wafers For Red, White, and Blue Variation.
- 3 tbsp Blue sanding sugar sprinkles Adds crunch and is optional for decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and thoroughly dry your ripe strawberries; ensure they are completely dry.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Melting the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the dark chocolate melting wafers and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth.
Dipping Strawberries
- Dip each strawberry by the stem into the melted dark chocolate, swirl gently to coat, and allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
- Place the dipped strawberries onto the prepared baking sheet and repeat with remaining strawberries.
For Red, White, and Blue Variation
- Melt the white chocolate wafers in a separate bowl and drizzle over the dark chocolate strawberries or dip a second layer.
- While the white chocolate is warm, sprinkle blue sanding sugar over the strawberries.
Setting the Chocolate
- Allow the chocolate covered strawberries to sit at room temperature or refrigerate for a short time until the chocolate is set.