How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries - by Laura Vitale - Laura in the Kitchen Ep. 99
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries - by Laura Vitale - Laura in the Kitchen Ep. 99 is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 600 calories per serving. Recipe by Laura in the Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 17 min | Cook: 27 min | Total: 54 min
Cost: $7.15 total, $0.60 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Fresh Strawberries (washed and thoroughly dried; use firm, ripe berries)
- 2 cups Milk Chocolate Chips (can substitute bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips)
- 2 teaspoons Vegetable Oil (neutral flavor; adds shine to chocolate)
- 1 sheet Wax Paper (for setting strawberries; parchment paper works as well)
Instructions
Prepare Strawberries
Wash strawberries under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel; any moisture will prevent chocolate from sticking.
Time: PT5M
Set Up Double Boiler
Fill a small pot with about 1 inch of water and bring to a gentle simmer; place the heat‑proof bowl on top ensuring the bottom does not touch the water.
Time: PT2M
Melt Chocolate
Add milk chocolate chips and vegetable oil to the bowl; stir constantly until smooth and fully melted, about 5‑7 minutes. Remove from heat once melted.
Time: PT7M
Dip Strawberries
Hold each strawberry by the stem or with tongs, dip into the melted chocolate covering about two‑thirds of the fruit, allow excess to drip back, then place on wax paper. Continue until all strawberries are coated.
Time: PT10M
Room‑Temperature Set
Let the chocolate‑coated strawberries sit on the wax paper at room temperature for about 5 minutes until the surface firms slightly.
Time: PT5M
Refrigerate to Finish
Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes until chocolate is fully set and glossy.
Time: PT15M
Clean Up
Wash the pot, bowl, spatula, and any other utensils used; wipe the counter.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 600
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 70 g
- Fat
- 30 g
- Fiber
- 6 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Milk, Soy (if soy oil)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Fresh Strawberries: Raspberries (for bite-size), Blueberries (for smaller bites)
- Instead of Milk Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips, Chopped chocolate bar
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Melted coconut oil (adds slight flavor)
- Instead of Wax Paper: Parchment paper, Silicone baking mat
Equipment Needed
- Small Pot
- Heat‑Proof Bowl
- Spatula
- Tongs (optional)
- Plate or Tray
- Kitchen Towel
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Dry strawberries completely before dipping
- Ensure bowl does not touch simmering water
- Do not overheat chocolate
- Cool strawberries at room temperature before refrigerating
- Use vegetable oil for shine
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate for a subtle flavor boost.
- Use a silicone brush to spread excess chocolate for a cleaner look.
- For a festive touch, drizzle white chocolate over the set strawberries.
- Store strawberries upright on a plate to keep stems visible for presentation.
Troubleshooting
Chocolate seizes and becomes grainy.
If any water entered the chocolate, gently re‑heat over low simmer and add a teaspoon of vegetable oil while stirring to smooth it.
Chocolate cracks after refrigeration.
Ensure strawberries are completely dry and allow the chocolate to set at room temperature before chilling; also keep the oil ratio as instructed.
Chocolate does not stick to strawberries.
Pat strawberries dry thoroughly; any moisture prevents adhesion.
Chocolate coating is too thin.
Use a higher chocolate‑to‑oil ratio or dip strawberries twice, letting the first layer set before the second dip.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on parchment, then transfer to a freezer bag; use within 1 month, texture may change.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 30 minutes as chocolate may soften.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Dry strawberries the night before and keep them uncovered in the fridge.
- Melt chocolate in a microwave‑safe bowl in short bursts if you prefer; keep it warm over a low flame.
- Prepare wax paper sheet in advance for quick transfer.
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. Their combination of fresh fruit and indulgent chocolate symbolizes love and luxury, making them a staple at romantic dinners and gift baskets.
What are the traditional regional variations of chocolate covered strawberries in the United States?
While the classic version uses milk chocolate, some regions favor dark or white chocolate, and others add toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or drizzle of caramel. In the Pacific Northwest, locally sourced berries are often paired with artisanal chocolate for a farm‑to‑table twist.
How are chocolate covered strawberries traditionally served in American romantic occasions?
They are typically arranged on a decorative platter or a bed of parchment, sometimes with fresh mint leaves for color. They are often presented as a single‑serve treat alongside champagne or as part of a dessert buffet at weddings and anniversaries.
What occasions or celebrations are chocolate covered strawberries traditionally associated with in American culture?
Beyond Valentine's Day, they appear at weddings, bridal showers, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, and even as a festive addition to holiday dessert tables. Their quick preparation also makes them popular for last‑minute party desserts.
How does chocolate covered strawberries fit into the broader American dessert tradition?
They embody the American love for handheld, indulgent sweets that combine fruit and chocolate. This mirrors other popular treats like chocolate‑dipped pretzels and candy‑coated nuts, highlighting a preference for contrast in texture and flavor.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for chocolate covered strawberries versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditionally the recipe uses fresh, firm strawberries, milk chocolate chips, and a neutral oil for shine. Acceptable substitutes include dark or white chocolate chips, canola oil, and other firm berries such as raspberries, though the texture and flavor will vary.
What other American desserts pair well with chocolate covered strawberries?
They pair beautifully with classic desserts like cheesecake, tiramisu, or a rich chocolate mousse. Serving them alongside a fruit tart or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a balanced sweet platter.
What makes chocolate covered strawberries special or unique in American confectionery?
The combination of fresh, juicy fruit with a glossy chocolate shell offers a contrast of temperature, texture, and flavor that is both elegant and approachable. The simplicity of the recipe also allows home cooks to customize toppings and chocolate types.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chocolate covered strawberries?
Common errors include dipping wet berries, overheating the chocolate, and skipping the room‑temperature set before refrigeration. Each mistake can cause chocolate to slide off, seize, or crack, resulting in a less appealing treat.
Why does this chocolate covered strawberries recipe use vegetable oil instead of butter for the chocolate coating?
Vegetable oil is flavorless and creates a thin, glossy film that keeps the chocolate smooth and prevents it from becoming too thick or grainy. Butter would add a buttery taste and could cause the coating to set harder, reducing the desired shine.
What does the YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen specializes in approachable, family‑friendly recipes ranging from quick weeknight meals to classic desserts. Laura focuses on clear step‑by‑step demonstrations that make cooking feel easy for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen's approach to dessert tutorials differ from other cooking channels?
Laura in the Kitchen emphasizes simplicity and reliability, often providing foolproof tips like using a double boiler and adding oil for shine. Unlike many channels that chase trends, Laura sticks to timeless techniques that ensure consistent results for home bakers.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
