Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Quick, Elegant, and Easy Dessert

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Published

Jun 11, 2025

dark chocolate covered strawberries on parchment
Freshly dipped dark chocolate covered strawberries set on parchment paper


Why I Love This Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe

A Sweet Memory from My Mom’s Kitchen

Back in suburban New York, dark chocolate covered strawberries were a family favorite long before I realized they were considered fancy. My mom used to whip up a batch on quiet Friday nights—just two ingredients, a few minutes, and suddenly our kitchen felt like a dessert café. Watching her dip each berry into smooth, melted chocolate was pure magic. It became one of the first sweet treats I ever made on my own.

Now, in my little Brooklyn apartment, I keep the tradition alive. When I need something sweet yet healthy, dark chocolate covered strawberries are my go-to. I use ripe, organic berries and high-quality 60% cacao dark chocolate—nothing else. Charlie, my rescue pup, usually lounges nearby, watching me line up each dipped strawberry on parchment paper like shiny little gems.

What I love most is that this recipe hits all the right notes: it’s a two ingredient dessert, a quick & easy dessert, and a healthy dessert recipe all in one. Whether it’s a last-minute Valentine’s Day treat or a wholesome indulgence after dinner, dark chocolate covered strawberries deliver every time. You can keep them simple or get fancy with white chocolate drizzles or crushed nuts—either way, they’re elegant and effortless.

And really, that’s the magic. No stress, no complicated steps—just pure, chocolate-drenched joy in every bite.

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tray of freshly dipped strawberries in chocolate

Quick Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries (2-Ingredient Treat)


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1215 strawberries 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Make these easy dark chocolate covered strawberries in just 15 minutes with only two ingredients! Perfect for gifting, date nights, or healthy snacking.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries (about 1 lb)
  • 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cacao)
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle)

Instructions

  • Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
  • If not organic, soak them in a 4:1 water-vinegar solution for 20 minutes, then rinse.
  • Dry the strawberries completely with paper towels.
  • Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until mostly melted.
  • Stir to fully melt and temper the chocolate.
  • Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the chocolate, coating it almost entirely.
  • Let excess chocolate drip off, then place the strawberry on a parchment-lined pan.
  • Repeat for all strawberries.
  • Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes until set.
  • Drizzle with white chocolate if using, and enjoy!

Notes

Use ripe strawberries with fresh green stems for best presentation.

Add 1 tsp coconut oil to chocolate for a smoother finish.

Do not freeze; store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Let them come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Healthy Desserts
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 strawberries
  • Calories: 74
  • Sugar: 6.4g
  • Sodium: 1.5mg
  • Fat: 3.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9.5g
  • Fiber: 1.9g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0.6mg

How to Make Easy Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Prep Your Strawberries the Right Way

The secret to perfect dark chocolate covered strawberries starts with the strawberries themselves. Pick a pint of ripe, organic berries that are firm, red to the top, and have vibrant green stems. Rinse them gently—organic berries just need cold water, while conventional ones should soak in a mix of four parts water and one part white vinegar to remove residue. After rinsing, dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy here; it prevents the chocolate from sticking smoothly.

strawberries with dark chocolate and white chocolate chips
Ingredients for chocolate covered strawberries: fresh berries, dark and white chocolate

Melt and Dip Like a Pro

Now grab your favorite dark chocolate—60% cacao is perfect. I love using Ghirardelli dark chocolate chips for their rich flavor and silky melt. Microwave the chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one. When about 90% are melted, take the bowl out and stir until fully smooth and glossy.

Take each berry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling until coated. Let the excess drip off, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For extra flair, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle on toppings like chopped nuts or shredded coconut.

Once your tray of dark chocolate covered strawberries is ready, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes until the chocolate sets.

hand dipping strawberry into melted dark chocolate
Dipping a ripe strawberry into smooth melted dark chocolate
close-up of single dark chocolate dipped strawberry
Perfectly dipped dark chocolate strawberry ready to serve

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Elegant, Effortless, and Always a Crowd-Pleaser

They shine especially well on special occasions like Valentine’s Day or baby showers. For themed events, customize the toppings on your dark chocolate covered strawberries to match—try crushed freeze-dried raspberries, gold sprinkles, or even a drizzle of white chocolate dyed pink.

Tips for Plating and Storing

Use parchment paper on your serving tray to prevent sticking. If you’ve just pulled them from the fridge, give your dark chocolate covered strawberries 15–20 minutes to come to room temperature before serving. This softens the chocolate slightly and makes for a smoother bite.

For an added touch, dip just half of each berry in toppings like crushed pistachios or coconut. These little extras turn a simple treat into something unforgettable—without adding work.

Next up: creative recipe variations that suit every diet, taste, and mood.

white plate with chocolate covered strawberries
A dozen dark chocolate covered strawberries styled for dessert

Fun Variations of Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Creative Twists for Every Occasion

Dark chocolate covered strawberries are amazing as-is, but they’re also the perfect base for creative variations. Whether you’re prepping for a fancy date night or a fun kids’ party, this treat adapts beautifully. For Valentine’s Day, I love to drizzle them with pink or red candy melts. You can also dip the tips in red sanding sugar or edible glitter to add sparkle.

Want a sweet-and-salty contrast? Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the chocolate before it sets. For a tropical vibe, roll freshly dipped strawberries in shredded coconut. Or keep it classic with crushed pistachios or almonds for a bit of crunch.

These fun toppings make dark chocolate covered strawberries feel even more festive. When I make them with kids, I turn it into a “decorate your own berry” activity with bowls of toppings like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, and crushed cookies. It’s playful, easy, and always a hit.

Make Them Fit Your Lifestyle

The best part about dark chocolate covered strawberries is how easily you can adjust them for different diets. Use vegan dark chocolate chips for a fully plant-based version, or go sugar-free for a keto-friendly treat. Look for dark chocolate sweetened with stevia or monk fruit to keep it low-carb.

Whatever your preference—classic, fancy, or health-conscious—there’s always a version of dark chocolate covered strawberries that works for you.


How to Store Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Keep Them Fresh Without the Fuss

When it comes to dark chocolate covered strawberries, freshness is everything. These treats are at their best within a few hours of dipping, but if you’re planning ahead or have leftovers (lucky you!), a little smart storage goes a long way. Make sure the chocolate has fully hardened, then place the strawberries in a single layer on a paper towel inside an airtight container. That layer of paper towel will soak up any moisture and help the chocolate stay crisp.

Stacking is a no-go—dark chocolate covered strawberries are delicate, and even a little pressure can ruin that beautiful coating. Refrigerate them for up to two days, but remember: the sooner you enjoy them, the better they’ll taste. When it’s time to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. That way, the chocolate softens slightly for a cleaner bite.

These tips are super useful for other make-ahead treats too, like my Homemade Mini Cheesecakes, which benefit from a little chill time before serving.

What Not to Do

Don’t even think about freezing dark chocolate covered strawberries. Freezing causes the berries to break down and the chocolate to crack—nobody wants soggy fruit and flaky shells. Also, avoid leaving them out in warm rooms or direct sunlight, where the chocolate can melt quickly.

If you’re gifting these or taking them to a gathering, tuck each strawberry into a cupcake liner and nestle them in a shallow box. It’s a presentation trick I also use for my Coconut Chocolate Balls—easy, tidy, and always impressive.

Follow these simple steps, and your dark chocolate covered strawberries will stay just as pretty and irresistible as when you made them.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make the best chocolate covered strawberries?

Start with clean, dry, ripe strawberries and high-quality dark chocolate. Melt the chocolate gently, dip each strawberry by the stem, and let the excess drip off. Place on parchment paper and chill briefly to set. For best results, don’t rush the drying or melting process.

What’s the best chocolate to use for strawberries?

For dark chocolate covered strawberries, use dark chocolate that’s at least 60% cacao. Ghirardelli, Lindt, and Guittard are great brands. Baking chips or melting wafers work well for smooth dipping and a shiny finish.

How long do chocolate covered strawberries last?

They’re best eaten within 24 hours but can be refrigerated in a paper towel-lined container for up to 48 hours. After that, the strawberries start to soften and the chocolate may lose its crisp texture.

Can you freeze chocolate covered strawberries?

Freezing is not recommended. The strawberries expand when frozen, causing the chocolate to crack and the berries to become mushy when thawed.

Why do you add oil or shortening when melting chocolate?

A small amount of coconut oil or shortening makes the chocolate smoother and shinier, which helps it coat the strawberries more evenly. It also makes dipping easier and prevents the chocolate from seizing.

How do you decorate chocolate covered strawberries?

Once dipped, you can drizzle with melted white chocolate, sprinkle crushed nuts, add colorful sugar, or use edible glitter. It’s a fun way to match them to holidays or events.

Are dark chocolate covered strawberries healthy?

Yes—when made with high-quality dark chocolate and fresh berries, they’re a lighter dessert option. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, and strawberries are full of vitamin C and fiber.

How to thin dark chocolate for dipping?

If your chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening while melting. Stir well to reach a smooth, pourable consistency ideal for dipping strawberries.


Conclusion

Dark chocolate covered strawberries prove that the best desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a little care, you can create something that feels luxurious and indulgent—whether you’re making them for a romantic night in, a family gathering, or just a well-deserved treat for yourself.

I love how versatile this recipe is. From choosing toppings to adjusting for special diets, there’s room to get creative or keep things classic. With tips for dipping, decorating, and storing, you’re fully equipped to make a batch of dark chocolate covered strawberries that look as good as they taste.


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