Pin it The first time I made chocolate-dipped strawberry skewers was for a last-minute dinner party when I realized I'd forgotten to plan dessert. I had a basket of strawberries and some dark chocolate in the pantry, and in a moment of inspiration, I grabbed a handful of wooden skewers from the junk drawer. My guests were so delighted by the playful presentation that I've never bothered with fancy plated desserts since.
Last Valentine's Day, I made a batch of these with my niece, who insisted on arranging the garnishes with such serious concentration that chocolate dripped onto the counter. We ate the messiest ones standing right there at the kitchen counter, laughing through sticky fingers and chocolate smudges. Sometimes the imperfect ones taste the best.
Ingredients
- 24 large fresh strawberries, hulled: The size matters here because larger strawberries provide more surface area for chocolate and feel substantial on the skewer. Choose berries that are fully red but not soft or mushy.
- 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped: This percentage strikes the perfect balance between intense chocolate flavor and sweetness. Higher cocoa content can become bitter, while lower lacks the sophisticated depth that makes these feel elegant.
- 1 tsp coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil: This tiny addition makes the chocolate smoother and helps it set with a glossy finish instead of dull or streaky.
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios: The slight crunch and subtle nuttiness contrast beautifully with the smooth chocolate and juicy berries.
- 2 tbsp shredded coconut: Adds tropical sweetness and a chewy texture that reminds me of chocolate-covered coconut candies.
- 2 tbsp white chocolate, melted (for drizzling): The drizzle makes these look like they came from a professional chocolatier and adds a creamy sweetness that cuts through the dark chocolate.
Instructions
- Prep your berries:
- Wash the strawberries gently and pat them completely dry with paper towels, then remove the green hulls. Any water left on the berries will seize the chocolate.
- Thread the skewers:
- Slide three strawberries onto each skewer, piercing through the center from bottom to top. Arrange them on a tray while you melt the chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate:
- Set a heatproof bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, add the chocolate and coconut oil, and stir constantly until completely smooth and glossy.
- Line your workstation:
- Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and set out your garnishes in small bowls so you can work quickly once the strawberries are dipped.
- Dip the skewers:
- Hold each skewer by the bare end and dip the strawberries into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off for a few seconds before transferring to the prepared tray.
- Add your toppings:
- Immediately sprinkle pistachios or coconut over the wet chocolate, or drizzle with white chocolate while it's still fluid so everything adheres properly.
- Set the chocolate:
- Refrigerate the skewers for about fifteen minutes until the chocolate is completely firm. They can stay at room temperature for serving after they've set.
Pin it I served these at a summer solstice party once, setting them in a mason jar on the picnic table as twilight settled over the backyard. My friend's daughter reached for one and declared it better than anything she'd ever had from a fancy pastry case, which remains the highest compliment my cooking has ever received.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
I've learned through many batches that chocolate chips seem convenient but contain stabilizers that prevent them from melting into a smooth, dippable consistency. Bars or baking discs melt more reliably and coat the strawberries more evenly. The difference in the final texture and appearance is significant.
The Skewer Trick
After threading the strawberries, I sometimes roll the skewer gently between my palms to even out the spacing and make sure each berry sits securely. It's a small detail that makes the finished skewers look intentional and neat rather than haphazardly assembled.
Working Ahead
These skewers are ideal for entertaining because you can prepare them up to four hours in advance without any decline in quality. The chocolate stays glossy and the strawberries remain fresh and firm. Just keep them refrigerated until shortly before serving, then let them sit at room temperature for ten minutes so the chocolate softens slightly.
- Set up a dipping station with everything within arm's reach before you start melting the chocolate
- Warm the skewers slightly at room temperature before serving if they've been refrigerated for more than an hour
- Have damp paper towels ready for inevitable drips and sticky fingers during assembly
Pin it There's something joyful about food on a stick that brings out the kid in everyone. These skewers transform simple ingredients into moments of delight, and sometimes that's exactly what dessert should be.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure chocolate sticks well to the strawberries?
Make sure strawberries are thoroughly washed and completely dry before dipping to ensure the chocolate adheres properly.
- → Can I use different types of chocolate for dipping?
Yes, dark, milk, or white chocolate can be used depending on your preference, each providing a distinct flavor profile.
- → What garnishes complement the chocolate-dipped strawberries?
Chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, and melted white chocolate drizzles add texture and visual appeal.
- → How long should dipped strawberries be refrigerated?
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to set firm before serving.
- → Are these skewers suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, by using vegan-certified chocolate and suitable oil substitutes, you can create a vegan-friendly version.