Making Chocolate Covered Strawberries For Valentines
Making Chocolate Covered Strawberries For Valentines is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 90 calories per serving. Recipe by In The Kitchen With Gina Young on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $3.65 total, $0.30 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Fresh Strawberries (Whole, medium‑size, washed and patted dry)
- 1 cup Milk Chocolate Chips (Semi‑sweet, preferably with low cocoa butter for easy melting)
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Smooth, no added nuts)
- 0.5 teaspoon Vegetable Oil (Adds gloss to melted chocolate; any neutral oil works)
- 1 sheet Parchment Paper (Lined on a baking tray for easy removal)
Instructions
Wash and Dry Strawberries
Place strawberries in a colander, rinse under cool water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Any moisture will cause chocolate to seize.
Time: PT5M
Measure Chocolate and Oil
Divide chocolate chips into two microwave‑safe bowls (one for milk chocolate, one for white). Add ½ teaspoon vegetable oil to each bowl and stir to combine.
Time: PT3M
Melt Chocolate
Microwave the milk‑chocolate bowl on high for 10 seconds, stir, then repeat in 10‑second bursts until smooth. Do the same with the white‑chocolate bowl. Do not let the chocolate boil.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the Work Surface
Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This will keep the strawberries from sticking and make cleanup easy.
Time: PT2M
Dip Strawberries in Milk Chocolate
Holding a strawberry by the green top, dip it into the melted milk chocolate, swirling to coat most of the fruit while leaving a small portion of red exposed. Gently tap the strawberry against the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate, then place it on the parchment sheet.
Time: PT10M
Drizzle White Chocolate
Using a fork, dip the tip into the melted white chocolate and flick it over the already‑coated strawberries to create decorative drizzles. Adjust the amount of drizzle to your taste.
Time: PT5M
Set and Chill
Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 5‑10 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm to the touch.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 4°C
Serve
Remove the strawberries from the fridge, arrange on a serving platter, and enjoy immediately or store as directed.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 90
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 20 g
- Fat
- 4 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Milk, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Milk Chocolate Chips: Milk chocolate bars broken into pieces, Chocolate melts
- Instead of White Chocolate Chips: White chocolate bars broken into pieces, White chocolate melts
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Melted coconut oil (will add flavor)
- Instead of Parchment Paper: Silicone baking mat, Wax paper (less ideal)
Equipment Needed
- Microwave
- Two Microwave‑Safe Mixing Bowls
- Spatula or Spoon
- Fork
- Baking Tray
- Paper Towels (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Wash and completely dry strawberries to prevent chocolate seizing.
- Melt chocolate in short bursts and stir to avoid overheating.
- Dip strawberries quickly and let excess chocolate drip off before setting.
- Drizzle white chocolate while both chocolates are still fluid for clean lines.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the melted milk chocolate for a subtle flavor boost.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle tiny edible gold dust on the white‑chocolate drizzles before chilling.
- If you prefer a darker look, substitute dark chocolate for the milk chocolate.
Troubleshooting
Chocolate becomes grainy or seizes.
Stop heating immediately, add a few drops of vegetable oil, and stir vigorously until smooth. If it doesn’t recover, start over with fresh chocolate.
Strawberries slip off the chocolate coating.
Make sure strawberries are completely dry. Dip them quickly and let excess chocolate drip off before placing on the tray.
White chocolate drizzle looks blotchy.
Use a clean fork and drizzle while the white chocolate is still fluid. If it thickens, gently re‑warm for a few seconds.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Only for a short period (up to 1 hour) before chocolate softens.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Melt chocolate up to 30 minutes ahead and keep it warm in a low‑heat oven (about 90°F).
- Dry strawberries thoroughly before dipping; any water will cause the chocolate to seize.
- Prepared strawberries can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chocolate covered strawberries in American Valentine's Day celebrations?
Chocolate‑covered strawberries became popular in the United States during the mid‑20th century as a romantic, bite‑size treat for Valentine's Day. The combination of fresh fruit and indulgent chocolate symbolizes love and luxury, making it a staple at romantic dinners and gift baskets.
What are the traditional regional variations of chocolate covered strawberries in American cuisine?
While the classic version uses milk chocolate, many regions add dark chocolate, white chocolate drizzles, or flavored coatings such as caramel or mint. Some Southern cooks coat strawberries with a thin layer of white chocolate and then roll them in crushed nuts for extra texture.
How is chocolate covered strawberries traditionally served in the United States on Valentine's Day?
They are typically arranged on a decorative platter or in a shallow box, sometimes with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of contrasting chocolate. They are served chilled, often alongside champagne or a sweet dessert wine.
What occasions or celebrations is chocolate covered strawberries traditionally associated with in American culture?
Besides Valentine's Day, they appear at anniversaries, bridal showers, Mother’s Day brunches, and as elegant party favors for weddings and holiday gatherings.
What makes Gina Young’s chocolate covered strawberries special compared to other recipes?
Gina adds a tiny amount of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate for a glossy finish, and she finishes the strawberries with a white‑chocolate drizzle using a fork, creating a visually striking contrast while keeping the preparation quick and beginner‑friendly.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chocolate covered strawberries?
Common errors include not drying the berries, overheating the chocolate, and waiting too long before dipping, which causes the chocolate to set and crack. Follow Gina’s tip to melt in short bursts and work quickly for a smooth coat.
Why does this recipe use a half‑teaspoon of vegetable oil in the chocolate?
The oil lowers the viscosity of the melted chocolate, giving it a glossy sheen and making it easier to coat the strawberries evenly without thickening or hardening too fast.
Can I make these chocolate covered strawberries ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes. After dipping and drizzling, refrigerate the strawberries in an airtight container for up to two days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the chocolate coating is perfect?
The chocolate should be smooth, glossy, and just thick enough to coat the berry without dripping excessively. The white‑chocolate drizzle should be thin, crisp, and create a contrasting lace‑like pattern.
How do I know when the chocolate is done melting and ready for dipping?
When you stir the chocolate after each 10‑second microwave burst and it becomes a uniform, fluid mixture with no visible solid pieces, it is ready. If it looks grainy, continue heating in short bursts while stirring.
What does the YouTube channel In The Kitchen With Gina Young specialize in?
In The Kitchen With Gina Young focuses on approachable, family‑friendly recipes that celebrate everyday moments and special occasions, often adding personal twists and practical tips for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel In The Kitchen With Gina Young's approach to American dessert cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Gina emphasizes simplicity, minimal equipment, and quick techniques like microwave melting, while still delivering visually appealing results. She often shares personal anecdotes and encourages viewers to make the recipes with loved ones, creating a warm, community‑focused vibe.
Last updated: August 19, 2026
