Homemade Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Chocolate covered strawberries are one of those desserts that feel effortlessly romantic, making them perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special date night. They look impressive but are surprisingly simple to make, which makes them ideal for a homemade touch. Plus they are so much cheaper to make at home!
The key is starting with good ingredients. Use plump, firm strawberries that are completely dry before dipping. For the chocolate, baking bars from Ghirardelli melt smoothly and set with a nice shine. Chop the bars into small pieces and melt them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring every 20 to 30 seconds until smooth. The microwave method keeps it easy and avoids the need for special equipment.
Once the chocolate is melted, hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it, turning slightly to coat it evenly. Let the excess drip off before placing it on parchment paper to set. For added texture, give pistachios, pecans, or graham crackers a quick whirl in the food processor. You want a mix of powder and tiny pieces so they cling to the wet chocolate and create a light crunch without overpowering the fruit. Sprinkle the mixture over the dipped berries while the chocolate is still soft so it sticks well.
White chocolate is another simple variation and adds contrast both in flavor and appearance. Melt it the same way in the microwave, stirring often to prevent scorching. You can dip the berries fully in white chocolate or drizzle it over dark chocolate for a layered look. Once the chocolate sets, the result is a dessert that feels special but takes very little effort.
