Ah, chocolate-covered strawberries—an indulgence that feels as extravagant as a red carpet event, yet as comforting as your favorite cozy sweater. Somehow, they remind me of the first warm breeze of spring while also conjuring memories of Valentine’s Day, when everything seems dipped in sweetness. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or just treating yourself on a random Tuesday, these delightful bites offer the perfect blend of juicy freshness and rich, velvety chocolate.
Steps
- Begin by thoroughly washing the strawberries and drying them completely to ensure the chocolate adheres properly. Moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking.
- Prepare any desired toppings, such as chopped nuts or toasted coconut, by placing them on small plates for easy access during dipping. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to place the finished strawberries on.
- Melt the chocolate using a double boiler by placing a heat-safe glass bowl over a saucepan with gently boiling water. Alternatively, use the microwave by heating the chocolate at half power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Holding each strawberry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off before placing it on the parchment-lined tray. If using toppings, dip the chocolate-coated strawberries into them immediately.
- If desired, melt white chocolate and use a fork to drizzle it over the chocolate-dipped strawberries. Allow the strawberries to rest on the baking sheet until the chocolate has fully set, approximately 15 minutes.
- To create a strawberry bouquet, skewer the strawberries with bamboo sticks of varying lengths and arrange them in a vase or jar for a decorative presentation.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces of Ghirardelli Baking Chips (bittersweet, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate)
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries with stems attached
Nutritional Values
Calories: 800kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Fat: 40g | Sodium: 40mg | Potassium: 1420mg | Sugar: 40g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 356mg | Calcium: 220mg | Iron: 6mg
FAQ
- What type of chocolate is best for making chocolate-covered strawberries?
- For the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to use high-quality baking chocolate. Options like Ghirardelli baking chips or Baker’s Baking Chocolate work well. While you can use milk, semi-sweet, bittersweet, or white chocolate, avoid using low-quality chocolate chips as they may not melt properly or taste as good.
- Can you melt chocolate chips in the microwave for chocolate-covered strawberries?
- Yes, you can use the microwave to melt chocolate chips, as long as they are a high-quality brand. Set the microwave to half power and stir the chocolate every 30 seconds until it is completely smooth.
- How should I store chocolate-covered strawberries?
- It’s best to store chocolate-covered strawberries in a cool place, ideally in the refrigerator uncovered for up to one day. If serving the same day, keep them at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat. Freezing them is not recommended, as thawing will cause moisture to ruin the chocolate coating.
- How long do chocolate-covered strawberries last?
- Chocolate-covered strawberries are best enjoyed within one to two days. The chocolate can make the strawberries sweat and release moisture, so they are ideally consumed on the day they are made.
- What are some topping ideas for chocolate-covered strawberries?
- Popular toppings include chopped nuts (like peanuts or pistachios), toasted coconut, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs, crushed Oreo cookies, melted white chocolate, and crushed candy canes.
Tips
- Ensure that your strawberries are at room temperature and thoroughly dry them before dipping. Any moisture on the strawberries can prevent the chocolate from adhering properly.
- Use high-quality chocolate, such as baking chocolate or premium baking chips, for a smoother melt and better flavor. This will result in a more appealing and delicious chocolate coating.
- Temper the chocolate by setting aside a small portion to add after melting. This step helps achieve a glossy finish and prevents the chocolate from becoming streaky or dull.
- Avoid freezing chocolate-covered strawberries, as they will release moisture upon thawing, which can spoil the chocolate coating. Instead, store them in a cool place and consume them within one to two days for the best taste and texture.
Equipment
- Double boiler – If you don’t have one already, you can make a DIY version with a saucepan and a heat-safe glass bowl.
- Heat-proof glass bowl – For melting chocolate over a saucepan if you don’t have a double boiler.
- Parchment paper – For lining the baking tray to place the dipped strawberries on.
- Bamboo skewers – If you want to make a chocolate strawberry bouquet.
