Chocolate Coated Strawberries

Chocolate Coated Strawberries are the perfect expression of love. They are quickly and easily made, and in their simplest form require just 2 ingredients; chocolate and strawberries.

They are a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day, a special gift or a romantic end to a dinner for two. They are always popular when served at parties, or make just a few as a special indulgence for when you’re home alone.

Chocolate Coated Strawberries are the quintessential expression of love.

To me, chocolate is the first ingredient I think of for a romantic dessert. However, chocolate desserts can frequently be very heavy. This is why, at times, I prefer the simplicity of good quality chocolate combined with fresh strawberries. The textural contrast of a crisp chocolate shell enveloping a sweet, succulent strawberry is very appealing. And I especially love how easy they are to make at home. It will take less than an hour and the result will be impressive regardless of your confectionery-making skills – or lack thereof!

However, although they are easily made, there are a few tips to achieve the best outcome. With so few ingredients it is essential that they be good quality. Your chocolate covered strawberries will only taste as good as the ingredients you use.

Firstly, always use good quality chocolate. It may cost a little extra but it will taste better. Better quality chocolate contains more cocoa butter, making it easier to work with and smoother and glossier when it melts.

Secondly, the quality of the strawberry is paramount. Bigger berries don’t always taste better; in fact, they’re often woody and lack flavour. Try to find strawberries that are bright red with minimal whiteness at the top. This makes them more attractive but it is also an indicator of flavour. Additionally, the leaves should be bright green and ideally have a stem.

An important tip is that the strawberries must be completely dry. If you have any water left from washing them, or if they have any bruised areas, the chocolate will not properly adhere to the berry.

Furthermore, drops of water on the berry may cause your chocolate to seize, transforming it from smooth and creamy to thick and grainy. After rinsing the strawberries, pat them dry then lay them on a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel until they are completely dry.

I prefer to melt the chocolate over a double boiler. It may seem easier to melt chocolate in the microwave but melting it in a double boiler means that I can keep an eye on it and not over-heat it. The water must be barely simmering; do not try and rush the process. Chocolate does not require much heat before it starts to melt – just think how quickly it melts on a hot day. The key is “low and slow”. The bowl must not come into contact with the water and you must ensure that steam does not get into the chocolate. Stir the chocolate occasionally and when it has mostly melted remove the bowl from the top of the saucepan. The remaining chocolate will melt in the residual heat.

You can customise these chocolates to suit your taste. Keep them elegant in their simplicity or adorn them as your heart desires.

To keep them healthy and full of antioxidants dip the berries in dark chocolate with 70% cocoa butter. Alternatively or additionally you could use milk or white chocolate. You can leave them plain or sprinkle them with chopped nuts, toasted coconut, coloured sprinkles, or top dark chocolate with some sea salt flakes. 

Have everything prepared in advance. Line a baking tray with baking paper and have all of your coatings in bowls. Hold a strawberry by the stem and dip it in the melted chocolate, turning to coat it. Lift the strawberry, let the excess drip off, and place it on your lined baking tray. If using toppings, sprinkle them on while the chocolate is still wet. And then, exercise patience whilst you wait for the chocolate to set. Could a luscious dessert be any simpler?

I am certain that you will melt the heart of someone you love if you make these Chocolate Coated Strawberries.

Please let me know in the comments below if you make them. And while you’re at it, try out Chocolate and Peanut Butter Banana Bites too!

Enjoy!
Alex and Faye xx