If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s both elegant and incredibly simple, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe. The luscious combination of ripe, juicy strawberries dipped in rich, smooth chocolate creates a match made in heaven that’s perfect for celebrations, gifts, or just treating yourself. With every bite, you get the sweet burst of fresh fruit wrapped in decadent chocolate, making these treats a timeless favorite that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of fresh, bright red strawberries with green leafy tops, arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. In the second part of the image, the strawberries are placed around a white container filled with more strawberries, with an unwrapped Ghirardelli dark chocolate bar lying next to them on the same white marbled surface. The strawberries have a slightly shiny texture, showing their freshness, and the dark chocolate bar has visible white chocolate and dark pieces on the wrapper. The scene is well lit and bright. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely crucial for the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Each one plays its part in creating a stunning and irresistibly delicious snack that anyone will adore.

Ghirardelli Baking Chips (10 ounces): Choose bittersweet, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference; quality chips ensure a silky, glossy coating.
Fresh strawberries (2 pounds): Make sure they’re ripe and the stems are intact; fresh berries give that juicy, vibrant pop against the chocolate.
Optional toppings (crushed nuts or shredded coconut): Adds texture and a gourmet flair for those who love a little extra crunch or tropical touch.
White chocolate chips (optional): Perfect for drizzling if you want to add a touch of elegance and contrast.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Strawberries

Begin by washing the strawberries gently under cool water and then drying them thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. This step is absolutely essential because any moisture on the berries will cause the chocolate to seize and prevent it from sticking properly. Take your time here – perfectly dry strawberries are the secret to a flawless chocolate coating.

Step 2: Prepare Your Toppings and Workstation

If you want to add some textural excitement to your chocolate covered strawberries, put your desired toppings like crushed nuts or shredded coconut onto separate small plates. Also, prepare a sheet pan lined with parchment or waxed paper where your dipped strawberries will rest to set. Having everything ready before you start dipping keeps the process smooth and fun.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Use a double boiler setup or microwave the chocolate chips in 30 second intervals, stirring well between each session to avoid burning. Patience here pays off with a perfectly melted, glossy chocolate. Stir often and remember that chocolate transforms gently; rushing it may cause it to seize or become grainy.

Step 4: Dip the Strawberries

Holding a strawberry by its stem, dip it confidently into the warm chocolate, then lift and twist it slightly to let the excess chocolate fall back into the bowl. At this point, if you’re using toppings, roll or sprinkle the berry gently for an extra burst of flavor. Then place the dipped strawberry carefully onto your parchment-lined sheet. Repeat this lovely process until all berries are dressed to perfection.

Step 5: Add a White Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)

For those who love a little extra drizzle of elegance, melt some white chocolate the same way and dip a fork into it. Drizzle the white chocolate artistically over the dipped strawberries for a charming contrast that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Finally, pop your tray of dipped strawberries into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is nicely set. This chilling step solidifies the coating and locks in the luscious flavors, giving you that gourmet finish every chocolate lover dreams about.

How to Serve Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate, resting on a white marbled surface. In the left image, a woman’s hand holds a bright red strawberry with green leaves, dipping it halfway into the chocolate. A spoon stands upright in the bowl, partially covered by the chocolate. In the right image, the woman’s hand lifts the strawberry, now covered in a glossy layer of chocolate with small ridges of dipped chocolate near the green leaves. The background is softly blurred with dark brown and green elements, creating a warm atmosphere. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe, consider fresh mint leaves, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These additions enhance the visual appeal and introduce subtle complementary scents and tastes that surprise and delight.

Side Dishes

Serve these beauties alongside some sparkling wine, champagne, or a rich cup of coffee for an indulgent treat. They’re also fantastic with a simple cheese platter or even vanilla ice cream to offer a beautiful contrast in textures and temperatures.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes the experience! Arrange your strawberries on a tiered dessert stand, place them in themed gift boxes for presents, or display them on patterned plates accented with colorful napkins. You can even tie small ribbons around the stems for a charming, personalized touch that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which will be tough!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days to maintain that fresh berry juiciness and crisp chocolate shell.

Freezing

Freezing chocolate covered strawberries isn’t ideal because the berries release moisture during thawing that can soften the chocolate coating. However, if you must freeze them, wrap each strawberry individually in wax paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating since that can melt the chocolate unevenly and compromise the fresh berry texture.

FAQs

Can I use any type of chocolate for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe shines with Ghirardelli chips due to their smooth texture and rich flavor, you can use any high-quality chocolate you prefer—bittersweet, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate for the coating or drizzle.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing during melting?

Make sure no water gets into your chocolate while melting. Use dry utensils and melt slowly at low heat, stirring frequently. Using a double boiler or short bursts in the microwave helps control the temperature perfectly.

What’s the best way to store the coated strawberries before serving?

Store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm and the strawberries fresh. Avoid stacking them to prevent smudging the chocolate coating.

Can I make these strawberries ahead of time for an event?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them chilled. They retain their freshness beautifully overnight, making them ideal for parties or special occasions.

What toppings pair best with chocolate covered strawberries?

Classic toppings like crushed nuts, shredded coconut, and sprinkles work wonderfully. You can also try sea salt flakes for a sweet and salty twist or finely chopped freeze-dried fruit for extra bursts of flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe. It transforms a simple fruit into a decadent delight that’s perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to festive celebrations. I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in and try it yourself—the joy of crafting these luscious treats is every bit as satisfying as indulging in them. Trust me, once you do, these will be your go-to dessert for impressing friends and family with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.

Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries Recipe

Print Recipe

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Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries are an elegant and delicious treat perfect for any special occasion or dessert table. Fresh, juicy strawberries are dipped in rich, melted Ghirardelli chocolate and optionally coated with toppings like crushed nuts or coconut. Finished off with an optional drizzle of white chocolate, these easy-to-make confections set quickly in the refrigerator for a stunning, decadent snack or gift.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 30 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Chocolate

10 ounce package Ghirardelli Baking Chips (Bittersweet, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate)
Optional: White chocolate for drizzling

Fruit

2 pounds fresh strawberries (stems attached)

Optional Toppings

Crushed nuts
Coconut flakes

Instructions

Prepare Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly under running water, then dry them very well using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Ensuring that the strawberries are completely dry is critical because any moisture will prevent the chocolate from adhering properly.
Prepare Toppings and Work Area: If using toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes, place them on small plates or shallow bowls for easy dipping. Line a sheet pan or baking tray with parchment paper or waxed paper to place the dipped strawberries on.
Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler by gently heating over simmering water or microwave the chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent burning. Stir frequently until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Dip Strawberries: Hold a strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate. Lift and twist the strawberry to let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. At this point, you may roll or sprinkle the dipped strawberry in your choice of toppings or leave it plain. Then, place the strawberry on the prepared parchment-lined sheet.
Drizzle White Chocolate (Optional): Melt white chocolate similarly if desired. Using a fork, dip it into the white chocolate and drizzle it over the dipped strawberries for an elegant finishing touch.
Set Chocolate: Transfer the sheet pan with the dipped strawberries to the refrigerator and chill for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened.

Notes

Make sure strawberries are completely dry before dipping to ensure chocolate adheres properly.
You can customize toppings according to your preference, such as crushed pistachios, almonds, or shredded coconut.
For best results, use high-quality baking chocolate like Ghirardelli for superior taste and texture.
If white chocolate is used for drizzling, temper it carefully or microwave in short bursts to avoid burning.
Store chocolate covered strawberries in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.