Indulge guilt-free in these antioxidant-rich dark chocolate-covered strawberries. These delectable treats are crowd-pleasers and require only three simple ingredients!
Juicy sweet strawberries and a crunchy dark chocolate coating make chocolate-covered strawberries irresistible. These cold treats require only 10 minutes of preparation before popping them in the fridge!
Are Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries Gut-Friendly?
You may ask why these indulgent treats appear on a food blog for gut health. It’s because they are in fact gut-friendly!
First, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have been associated with promoting gut health by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Srawberries are also rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes regularity.
Finally, both dark chocolate and strawberries are relatively low in sugar compared to other desserts, which can help maintain a healthy balance of gut microbiota by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria associated with excessive sugar consumption.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Perhaps the best part about these treats is their 3 simple ingredients (see recipe card for quantities):
- fresh strawberries
- dark chocolate chips (60% cacao or higher)
- avocado oil
Shopping for Strawberries
How to Make Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Put dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or pyrex. Heat on high in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir, then microwave for an additional 20-25 seconds before stirring again. Continue heating in 15-second intervals until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Stir the avocado oil into the melted chocolate.
Coat the strawberries by dipping and twisting each strawberry in the melted chocolate. Place strawberries on your parchment-lined sheet pan.
Chill the strawberries in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or 6 oz)
- 1 lb strawberries
- 2 tsp avocado oil
Instructions
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Put dark chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl. Heat on high in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir, then microwave for an additional 20-25 seconds before stirring again. Continue heating in 15-second intervals until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Stir the avocado oil into the melted chocolate.
- Coat the strawberries by dipping and twisting each strawberry in the melted chocolate. Place strawberries on your parchment-lined sheet pan.
- Chill the strawberries in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Recipe FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
While milk chocolate may be used as an alternative, dark chocolate generally contains higher levels of antioxidants and less sugar, making it a healthier option.
What is the purpose of the avocado oil when melting chocolate?
The avocado oil creates a smooth, shiny, and more fluid texture for the chocolate coating.
Avocado oil is a healthy fat with a neutral flavor, making it an excellent choice for thinning out chocolate without altering its taste significantly.
Can I substitute other oils for melting the chocolate?
Coconut oil would be a nice substitute for avocado oil due to its mild flavor and ability to solidify at room temperature, providing a glossy finish to the chocolate coating.
Extra virgin olive oil would be your next best option. It will add a subtle fruity flavor to the chocolate.
How do I store dark chocolate-covered strawberries?
You can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days, but keep in mind that after a day, the strawberries start to sweat and soften. If you don’t mind a slightly soggy texture, it’s fine, but I like the robust texture of the strawberries shortly after they’re prepared.
Can I freeze dark chocolate-covered strawberries?
Yes, you can freeze them for longer storage. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before consuming.
Are dark chocolate-covered strawberries gluten-free?
Generally, dark chocolate and strawberries are gluten-free, but it’s essential to check the ingredients in the chocolate chips to ensure they don’t contain any gluten-containing additives.
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
While white chocolate can be used, it contains less cocoa solids and more sugar, resulting in fewer health benefits than dark chocolate.
2 Comments
so easy but worthy of serving to guests.
Served this at book club. Huge crowd pleaser!