You don’t need to be an expert chocolatier to make beautiful chocolate covered strawberries. In fact, you have everything you need right in your kitchen! This simple guide will help you create perfect chocolate-dipped strawberries for any occasion.
Making Chocolate Covered Strawberries
In gift baskets, on a cheeseboard or on top of a very special cake, chocolate covered strawberries add a touch of elegance to any occasion. Rich chocolate is the perfect balance to bright, tart strawberries. The two flavors really do bring out the best in each other. Yet this DIY looks much harder than it is. With Hershey and a little food science, you can soon be making your own chocolate-dipped strawberries — with a smooth and shiny shell!
Best Chocolate for Dipping Strawberries
Before you get started, it is important you select a quality chocolate that will melt consistently and provide even texture. For a rich and smooth consistency, we recommend using one of the following products, which are used throughout the recipes within this post.
- HERSHEY'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Baking Chips Bag, 12 oz
- HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate Baking Chips, 11.5 oz
- HERSHEY'S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Baking Chips, 12 oz
- HERSHEY'S Premier White Creme Chips, 12 oz
- HERSHEY'S KITCHENS Sugar Free Baking Chips, 8 oz
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Everyone loves chocolate coated strawberries. But you can't dip them in just any old chocolate. Use your microwave to easily melt HERSHEY'S Chocolate Chips for the perfectly sweet, smooth coating on your strawberries.
Ingredients you'll need:
- Fresh strawberries, with stems, rinsed and patted dry
- HERSHEY'S Chocolate Chips
- Shortening (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil)
How to melt chocolate chips for dipping strawberries:
Place chocolate chips and shortening in medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at MEDIUM (50%) 1-1/2 minutes or just until chips are melted and mixture is smooth when stirred; cool slightly.
Instructions:
- Cover tray with wax paper.
- Holding strawberry by top, dip 2/3 of each berry into chocolate mixture; shake gently to remove excess. Place on prepared tray.
- Refrigerate until coating is firm, about 30 minutes. Store, covered, in refrigerator. For best results, use within 24 hours. Coats about 5 dozen small strawberries. (About 1 cup coating)
How to Decorate Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Decorating chocolate covered strawberries has never been easier! Follow this recipe to create both white creme and milk chocolate dipped strawberries. And for a fancy final touch, drizzle with leftover melted chocolate and dip in a bowl of crushed JOLLY RANCHER Hard Candies!
Ingredients you'll need:
- JOLLY RANCHER Original Hard Candies in Blue Raspberry and Watermelon
- Fresh strawberries
- HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate Chips (11.5-oz pkg.)
- Shortening (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil), divided
- HERSHEY'S Premier White Creme Chips (12-oz pkg.)
- Gel food color in desired colors (optional)
How to Store Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Storing at room temperature
Cover your chocolate covered strawberries with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you don't plan to enjoy them within 24 hours, it is best to refrigerate or freeze them. Since chocolate covered strawberries are prone to moisture, it is best to loosely cover them rather than place them in tightly sealed containers, which may otherwise accelerate mold growth or spoilage.
Storing in the refrigerator
When storing in the fridge, get a sizable container and line it with a few paper towels on the bottom. Gently place the strawberries in the container without stacking them. Loosely cover this container with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent trapping moisture. Do not use a tightly sealing lid. Best enjoyed within 48 hours.
Storing in the freezer
When freezing chocolate-dipped strawberries, keep them separated on a parchment-lined cookie sheet or pan and store them in the freezer for about 3 hours or until solid. Once completely frozen solid, the strawberries can then be placed in a freezer bag for easier storage up to about 3 months. When defrosting, be sure to thaw for about an hour before enjoying.
HERSHEY'S Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Recipes
Double Dipped Strawberries with Chocolate Bars
Store-bought chocolate covered strawberries won't look nearly as fancy as this double chocolate homemade option. A layer of both HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate and HERSHEY'S SPECIAL DARK Chocolate make these berries extra special and a whole lot more chocolatey.
White Creme & Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
This chocolate dipped strawberry recipe is the only time you'll actually want your kids to double dip. Enjoy the delicious combination of white creme chips, HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate and refreshingly sweet strawberries.
Get the Recipe
Other Frequently Asked Questions
When are strawberries in season?
Strawberry seasons vary by state, but in most states strawberries are ripest in the spring and summer months of May through June.
How long can you keep chocolate covered strawberries out at room temperature?
Chocolate strawberries shouldn't be kept at room temperature for more than 24 hours. If left out, be sure to cover them with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Storing them in airtight containers can lead to quicker decomposition and mold growth from trapped moisture.
How long do chocolate covered strawberries last?
When refrigerated, chocolate covered strawberries can last 48 hours or up to a few days; however, they are best enjoyed within 2 days. If frozen, your dessert can last much longer, up to 3 months!
How far in advance can you make chocolate covered strawberries?
Depending how the strawberries are stored, the chocolate covered strawberries can be made a few days in advance. If not refrigerated, chocolate covered strawberries should be enjoyed within 24 hours. If made more than 48 hours ahead, plan to freeze the dessert, which will greatly lengthen its longevity.
Can chocolate covered strawberries be frozen?
Yes! In fact, this may be a better option when storing your chocolate covered strawberries if you don't plan to enjoy them all within 24 to 48 hours.
Chocolate makes everything more special.
Perfect for Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and anniversaries, chocolate covered strawberries tend to get the same reaction as a bouquet of roses. They always make the recipient feel special and so adored. Even more so when there’s care tucked into every bite! Use our tips to make chocolate covered strawberries with your own personal touch.
If you love chocolate-covered everything, you’re in good company. Check out our other recipe on how to make chocolate ganache. And for more sweet ideas, explore our complete collection of baking recipes.
