How To Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Strawberries and chocolate are two of my favorite ingredients – strawberry is my favorite fruit and chocolate is my favorite food :)  When these delicious foods are paired together, they result in the most mouthwatering dessert – chocolate covered strawberries!  They always look impressive and taste as good as they look – sweet juicy strawberry on the inside and the crunchy chocolate shell on the outside.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

• These chocolate-covered strawberries are both beautiful and delicious, making them the perfect treat for any occasion, from holidays to everyday indulgences. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and rich, smooth chocolate is irresistible.
• They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort. Even beginners in the kitchen can whip up a batch of these impressive treats in under 30 minutes.
• This dessert is naturally gluten-free and low in calories, with each strawberry containing about 50 calories. It’s a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy without worrying about overindulging.
• Chocolate-covered strawberries are versatile and can be made with any type of chocolate you prefer—dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate. You can even add your own twist by drizzling white chocolate or adding toppings like sprinkles or nuts.
• They make for a beautiful presentation, whether served on a platter for a party or wrapped up as a thoughtful homemade gift. The vibrant red strawberries and shiny chocolate coating are always a crowd-pleaser!

A great thing about chocolate-covered strawberries is that they are extremely easy to make.  You don’t need any special candy-making skills or special equipment to make this gorgeous dessert.  In about 30 minutes you will make a whole batch of chocolate-dipped strawberries for you to enjoy!

Ingredients For Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

• Fresh Strawberries – These are the star of the recipe! Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Use your favorite type of chocolate: dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate. This is what creates the rich, indulgent coating.
• Butter – Adding butter helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates a glossy finish for the dipped strawberries.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

I never thought the chocolate-covered strawberries were easy to make until I made them recently for the first time.  I was looking for dessert ideas to bring to a potluck party, and in fact I was going to buy a dessert instead of making it.  Then I saw the chocolate-covered strawberries for sale at our supermarket for $3 per piece.  There is no way I was going to pay this much I thought to myself (as I needed at least 20 pieces).  So I decided to try making them myself (and if they turned out bad, my plan B was to just bring some store-bought cookies instead).

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

• Microwave-Safe Bowl – This is used to melt the chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave.
• Colander – To wash the strawberries and remove excess water.
• Paper Towels – Essential for drying the strawberries completely before dipping them in chocolate.
• Parchment Paper – Keeps the strawberries from sticking to the plate or baking sheet after dipping.
• Plate or Baking Sheet – Use this to place the dipped strawberries on for cooling and hardening.

These chocolate-covered strawberries on the picture above are from when I made them the first time ever, and they turned out perfect!  My 11-year-old daughter was helping me make them, so this recipe is even easy enough for a kid :) These chocolate-dipped strawberries were delicious and were a hit of the party!

Another bonus of chocolate-covered strawberries is that it’s one of the healthiest desserts ever, as they are low in calories and fat!  Each chocolate-dipped strawberry has only about 50 calories.  If you are looking for a gluten-free dessert, this is it, as there is no flour and no gluten.  Plus strawberries are full of vitamins and the chocolate is loaded with anti-oxidants, making it another good excuse to make and eat this delicious treat!

How To Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

• Start by washing the strawberries in a colander and make sure they are completely dry. Dry them with paper towels or let them air-dry for at least an hour.
• Line a plate or baking sheet with parchment paper so the dipped strawberries don’t stick.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave on a low setting for 3 minutes, then stir until smooth. If needed, microwave in 1-minute increments until fully melted.
• Hold each strawberry by its green stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, turning to coat all sides.
• Place the dipped strawberries on the parchment-lined plate and repeat with the remaining strawberries.
• Put the strawberries in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

Who Invented Chocolate-Covered Strawberries?

Fun fact: the chocolate-covered strawberries were invented in 1960’s by a woman named Lorraine Lorusso, when she worked as a candy buyer at a Chicago store called Stop n Shop.

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange the chocolate-covered strawberries on a beautiful platter for a party or special occasion. The glossy chocolate and vibrant red strawberries make a stunning display.
• Add a decorative drizzle of white chocolate over the top for a fancier presentation.
• Serve alongside a glass of champagne or sangria wine for a romantic dessert pairing.
• These also make a great gift! Package them in a small box or wrap them in cellophane with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present.

The Secrets To Making Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

When you make chocolate-covered strawberries, there is one rule you must follow: the strawberries have to be absolutely dry before dipping.  If the strawberry is wet, the chocolate won’t stick well.  Here’s how I dried the strawberries: first I washed them in a colander so all the excess water drains, then I put them on a paper towel and blotted the water on top with another paper towel.  Then I layed out a double-layer of new fresh paper towel on the counter and carefully transferred the strawberries there.  Then I just left them alone for an hour, and when I came back they were perfectly dry.

Also, it goes without saying – use the best strawberries you can get!  This dessert is only as good as the ingredients that go into it.  This is definitely not the recipe to use up the ingredients that are near their shelf life :)  Strawberries can go bad really quickly, so it’s best to buy them the same day as you plan on making the chocolate-covered strawberries. So you should use really good fresh strawberries and your favorite chocolate.  My favorite is dark chocolate, but you can really use any kind of chocolate, including semi-sweet and milk.

Tips For Success

• Ensure strawberries are completely dry: This is the most important step to ensure the chocolate sticks to the strawberries properly. If there’s any moisture left on the strawberries, the chocolate may not adhere well or could cause the coating to crack. After washing the strawberries, let them air dry for at least an hour or carefully pat them dry with paper towels.
• Use high-quality chocolate: The flavor of your chocolate-covered strawberries depends largely on the chocolate you use. Choose a chocolate that you love eating on its own, whether it’s dark, milk, or semi-sweet. High-quality chocolate will melt smoother and provide a more luxurious taste.
• Add butter for a smooth, glossy finish: Melting the chocolate with a bit of butter helps create a shiny finish on the strawberries, making them look more appetizing. It also prevents the chocolate from becoming too thick or clumpy.
• Melt the chocolate carefully: When melting the chocolate, always use a low setting in the microwave to avoid burning it. Stir every minute or two to make sure it melts evenly. If you prefer, you can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.
• Chill the strawberries after dipping: Once the strawberries are coated in chocolate, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help the chocolate set and harden evenly. Don’t leave them in the fridge for too long, as the strawberries can start to release moisture, which could affect the chocolate coating.

Variations And Substitutions

• Chocolate Options: While dark chocolate is a popular choice for its rich flavor, you can also use milk or white chocolate depending on your preference. Milk chocolate offers a sweeter, creamier taste, while white chocolate gives a beautiful contrast when drizzled over the top of dark or milk chocolate strawberries.
• Toppings: After dipping the strawberries in chocolate, you can roll them in a variety of toppings to add texture and flavor. Crushed nuts like almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts are great for adding crunch. For extra sweetness, try using sprinkles, shredded coconut, or even mini chocolate chips.
• Dairy-Free Version: To make a dairy-free version of chocolate-covered strawberries, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and substitute the butter with coconut oil. This will create a silky smooth finish without any dairy.
• Flavor Additions: You can enhance the flavor of your chocolate by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt before dipping the strawberries. For a more gourmet twist, try adding a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the melted chocolate for a spicy or warm flavor.
• Seasonal Decorations: Get creative by decorating the strawberries for holidays or special occasions. Use colored candy melts for festive themes like red and green for Christmas, or red, white, and blue for patriotic celebrations. You can also create romantic pink and red strawberries for Valentine’s Day.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Chocolate-covered strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, on the same day they are made. However, if you need to store them, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper and keep them in the refrigerator. Make sure the strawberries are in a single layer to prevent sticking or smudging.
• Shelf Life: For optimal freshness, consume within 24 hours. After this time, the strawberries may start to release moisture, which can affect the texture of both the fruit and the chocolate.
• Avoid Reheating: Since the chocolate hardens as it cools, reheating is not necessary. Once dipped and chilled, the chocolate-covered strawberries should be eaten cold. Reheating can cause the chocolate to become runny and lose its smooth texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries to make chocolate-covered strawberries?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe. Frozen strawberries tend to release a lot of moisture as they thaw, which will make it difficult for the chocolate to stick properly. Fresh strawberries will give you the best texture and appearance.

How long do chocolate-covered strawberries last?

Chocolate-covered strawberries are best when eaten on the same day they’re made. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but after that, the strawberries may start to soften, and the chocolate coating can become less crisp.

What kind of chocolate is best for dipping strawberries?

You can use any chocolate you prefer, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate. For a richer flavor, dark or semi-sweet chocolate is a great choice. If you prefer something sweeter, go for milk chocolate. High-quality chocolate will melt smoother and give a better final result.

Why is my chocolate not sticking to the strawberries?

If the chocolate isn’t sticking well, it’s likely because the strawberries weren’t completely dry before dipping. Even a small amount of moisture on the strawberries can prevent the chocolate from adhering properly. Be sure to dry the strawberries thoroughly with paper towels before dipping.

Can I add toppings to chocolate-covered strawberries?

Yes! You can add toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, shredded coconut, or even drizzle them with white chocolate for a decorative touch. Be sure to add the toppings while the chocolate is still wet so that they stick.

Other Easy Strawberry Recipes

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Keto and Gluten-Free Berry Tart: This delicious berry tart is a low-carb, gluten-free dessert perfect for keto diets and full of fresh flavors.

Spinach, Strawberry, and Feta Salad Recipe: A refreshing and colorful salad combining sweet strawberries, tangy feta, and fresh spinach for a perfect balance of flavors.

Homemade Fruit and Yogurt Parfait (Starbucks Inspired): This easy-to-make parfait layers creamy yogurt with fresh fruit for a healthy, delicious snack or breakfast.

Vegan Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Bars (Gluten-Free): These chewy, gluten-free oatmeal bars are packed with strawberries and bananas for a tasty vegan breakfast or snack.

Keto Sugar-Free Strawberry Popsicles (Paleo, Vegan): These refreshing, sugar-free popsicles are keto, paleo, and vegan, made with real strawberries for a guilt-free treat.

Holiday Fruit Salad with Strawberries, Kiwi, and Bananas – Festive Red and Green: A vibrant and healthy fruit salad perfect for the holidays, featuring juicy strawberries, kiwi, and bananas in festive colors.

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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries Recipe

Chocolate-covered strawberries are easy to make at home, and they look and taste delicious. If you are looking for an amazing dessert to impress your guests, this is it!

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Total Time20 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Author: MelanieCooks.com

Ingredients

• 1 package 1 lb strawberries
• 1 package 8 oz chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp butter

Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)

• Microwave-Safe Bowl
• Measuring spoon
• Colander
• Paper towels
• Parchment Paper
• Plate or baking sheet

Instructions

• Wash the strawberries and fully dry them (either by laying them out on a paper towel and waiting for 1 hour, or dry the strawberries with paper towels individually and use right away).
• Line a plate or baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Put the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave the chocolate chips and butter on "Low" or "Defrost" setting for 3 minutes.
• Stir to combine chocolate and butter, and see if the chocolate is fully melted. If not, microwave more in 1 minute increments until fully melted.
• Take each strawberry by the green stem and dip into the chocolate, so it's coated on all sides.
• Put the chocolate-dipped strawberry on parchment paper, and repeat with remaining strawberries.
• Put the chocolate-covered strawberries in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

Notes

Chocolate covered strawberries are best consumed the same day they were made. Do not store for more than 24 hours.

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