Enjoy fresh strawberries dipped in melted chocolate and sprinkled with a mix of finely chopped nuts. This easy-to-make treat combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with the smooth richness of dark or milk chocolate and a satisfying nutty crunch. Ideal for parties or special moments, these bites set quickly at room temperature or in the fridge. Use fresh, dry strawberries to ensure the chocolate adheres well and customize with different chocolate types or nut varieties for added flair.
The winter my youngest daughter turned six, she declared chocolate dipped strawberries were the only dessert acceptable for her birthday. I'd never made them before and assumed they'd be complicated, but watching her eyes light up as she carefully sprinkled nuts over each berry convinced me some of the best desserts are the simplest ones.
Last Valentine's Day, I made these while my husband kept trying to steal chocolate from the melting bowl. We ended up with strawberries everywhere, some barely coated, others practically buried in nuts, and laughter filling the whole kitchen. They still tasted perfect.
Ingredients
- 12 large fresh strawberries: Leave those stems on completely dry fruit helps chocolate stick better than anything else I've learned the hard way
- 120 g good quality dark or milk chocolate: Chop everything into similar sized pieces before melting for that perfectly smooth professional texture
- 40 g finely chopped mixed nuts: Pistachios add lovely color, almonds bring crunch, hazelnuts contribute that roasted depth that makes these memorable
- 1 tsp coconut oil: Optional but creates such a gorgeous glossy finish and helps chocolate set slightly firmer
Instructions
- Prep your workstation:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper before starting anything else, and have your chopped nuts ready in a shallow bowl for easy dipping.
- Melt the chocolate:
- Melt chocolate with coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or microwave in twenty second bursts, stirring until completely smooth and glossy.
- Dip and coat:
- Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip about two thirds into chocolate, then immediately roll or sprinkle with nuts while chocolate is still warm.
- Set and serve:
- Place dipped strawberries on the prepared sheet and let them set at room temperature for thirty minutes or refrigerate for ten to fifteen minutes until firm.
My grandmother always said fancy food just needs good ingredients and a little attention. She would have loved how something so uncomplicated makes people feel special.
Choosing the Perfect Berries
I've learned to pick strawberries that are slightly underripe rather than overly soft. They hold up better during dipping and still taste perfectly sweet. Look for bright red berries without any white shoulders.
Melting Chocolate Like a Pro
The double boiler method gives me the most control, but the microwave works beautifully if you're careful. Just remember chocolate continues melting even after you remove it from heat, so stop while small lumps still remain.
Creative Variations
Sometimes I swap white chocolate for a stunning contrast, or add crushed candy canes during December. The possibilities really are endless once you master the basic technique.
- Try drizzling contrasting chocolate over the set chocolate for that bakery style look
- Toasted coconut makes a gorgeous alternative or addition to nuts
- A pinch of sea salt over dark chocolate creates this sophisticated sweet salty balance
These are always best the day they're made, though I've happily eaten them the next morning too. Enjoy every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chocolate works best?
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Good-quality dark or milk chocolate melting smoothly ensures even coating and rich flavor. Coconut oil can be added for a glossy finish.
- → How do I prevent chocolate from sliding off?
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Make sure strawberries are completely dry before dipping so the chocolate sticks properly and sets evenly.
- → Can I use different nuts?
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Yes, a mix of pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts offers varied texture and taste that complements the chocolate and fruit.
- → How long should the dipped strawberries set?
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Allow them to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until firm.
- → How should I store the finished treat?
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Keep the coated strawberries in a single layer in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness and texture.