Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups

Name: Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 12 large strawberries; 200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa); Sea salt (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

I absolutely adore the richness of chocolate paired with the freshness of strawberries, and these Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups are no exception! Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors that's perfect for special occasions or just indulging myself on a cozy evening. The best part is how simple they are to make, yet they impress everyone with their elegant presentation. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them over and over again for family and friends!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-25T15:53:27.154Z

Creating these Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups was a delightful experience for me. I had some fresh strawberries and premium dark chocolate on hand, so I decided to combine them into a soothing treat. By gently melting the chocolate and allowing it to cool slightly before dipping the strawberries, I ensured a perfect coating that didn't slide off. This attention to detail made all the difference in the final presentation!

While preparing these, I learned that using quality chocolate is crucial. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a glossy finish to the treats. To elevate them further, I experimented with a sprinkle of sea salt on top, which brings out the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. This small touch left my guests raving!

Why You'll Love These Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups
Decadent chocolate complements the juicy strawberries perfectly
Easy to make yet impressively elegant for any occasion
A touch of sea salt elevates the flavor to new heights

The Importance of Chocolate Quality

When making Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups, the quality of your chocolate significantly impacts the final flavor. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70%. This percentage ensures a rich, bittersweet experience that beautifully balances the sweetness of the strawberries. Cheap chocolate can lead to a grainy texture and overwhelming sugariness, which undermines the elegance of the dish.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider using dairy-free chocolate, which is available in specialty stores. Look for brands that use pure cocoa butter instead of palm oil for better flavor. Always remember to read the ingredient list to avoid any unwanted additives.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Dipping

To achieve the perfect chocolate-dipped strawberries, the key is to ensure each strawberry is dry before dipping. Even a small amount of moisture can cause the chocolate to seize, leading to an uneven coating. For optimal results, allow the strawberries to come to room temperature after washing. This ensures a smoother chocolate finish, and you’ll notice the chocolate adhering better to the berry.

Another tip is to let your melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping; it should be glossy and warm to the touch, but not too hot. Dipping at the right temperature helps the chocolate set quickly on the chilled berries, maintaining a firm texture while still providing a beautiful sheen.

Customizing Your Chocolate Strawberry Cups

For a unique twist on your Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups, consider incorporating flavors into the chocolate itself. Adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, experiment with different types of chocolate like milk chocolate or white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version. Each variation can present a distinct personality to your dessert.

If you're feeling adventurous, try rolling the chocolate-covered strawberries in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even sprinkles before the chocolate sets. This extra texture not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a wonderful crunch that complements the softness of the strawberries.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Strawberry Cups

12 large strawberries
200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
Sea salt (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

Wash the strawberries thoroughly and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure there is no moisture left, as this will affect the chocolate coating.

Melt the Chocolate

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate over a double boiler, stirring frequently until it is smooth. Alternatively, you can melt it in the microwave in short bursts.

Dip the Strawberries

Once the chocolate is melted, allow it to cool slightly before dipping the strawberries. Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the chocolate, coating about two-thirds of the berry. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.

Set and Garnish

Place the dipped strawberries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each one if desired. Repeat until all strawberries are coated.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the chocolate-covered strawberries for at least 10 minutes to set. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious treats!

Pro Tips

Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Ensure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping to achieve a smooth chocolate coating.

Storage Tips

To keep your Gourmet Chocolate Strawberry Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. However, they are best enjoyed within the first 24 hours, as the strawberries will start to lose their freshness and the chocolate can become slightly dull.

If you know you won’t eat all of them right away, consider leaving some uncoated strawberries and only dipping them as needed. This helps maintain the texture and taste of the fresh strawberries while still allowing you to enjoy the treat later.

Scaling Your Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger batches. Simply multiply the amount of strawberries and chocolate according to your needs. For example, if you're hosting a party, using 24 strawberries will require approximately 400g of dark chocolate. Ensure you have enough space in your refrigerator to accommodate the extra coated strawberries.

When scaling, keep an eye on the chocolate melting process. If you’re using a larger quantity, it might take slightly longer to melt completely. Use a thermometer to check that the chocolate reaches about 45°C (113°F) for ideal melting without compromising texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will be sweeter and less intense than dark chocolate.

→ How can I store leftover chocolate-covered strawberries?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can sprinkle crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or colorful sprinkles on top for added texture and flavor.