A Sweet Tradition for Special Moments
Have you ever wondered why we gravitate toward chocolate and berries when we want to show someone we care? I think it is because the combination is just like a good marriage, it is sweet, a little bit tangy, and absolutely classic. When I was a boy growing up in Texas, my Grandmother used to say that the way to a person’s heart was through their stomach, but the way to their soul was through a shared dessert. While my Grandmother was the queen of Texas BBQ, she always had a soft spot for treats that looked like they belonged in a fancy bakery window. These XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries are my way of bringing that professional, gourmet touch into my own kitchen for my wife Emily and our kids, Adams and Jana.
Whenever Valentine’s Day or an anniversary rolls around, the kids and I head to the market to find the biggest, reddest berries we can find. It has become our little ritual. Adams, who is twelve now, takes the lead on the melting process while Jana, our nine year old artist, handles the decorations. We call these love bites chocolate strawberries because they really are a little kiss of sweetness in every mouthful. If you have been searching for the best chocolate covered strawberries recipe to impress your sweetheart or just to treat the family on a rainy Tuesday, you have found it. Put on your favorite playlist, grab your apron, and let us make something beautiful together.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- Ingredients for XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- How to Make XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- Pro Tips & Variations
- XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries Serving Suggestions
- XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries Storage & Reheating
- FAQ about XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- Final Thoughts
Why You’ll Love This XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
There is a reason why gourmet chocolate strawberries are the top choice for gifts. They feel luxurious without requiring you to spend eight hours over a hot stove. Here is why this recipe is a staple in the Sharif household:
- It is Activity Driven. I love recipes that get the kids involved. Dipping berries is safe, tactile, and rewards patience. It is much more than a recipe, it is a memory making session.
- Better than Delivery. If you have looked at chocolate covered strawberries delivery near me, you know the prices can be staggering. Making these at home using fresh strawberries is significantly more affordable and much fresher.
- Total Customization. Unlike the pre packaged boxes from places like Shari’s Berries or 1800Flowers, you choose the chocolate quality and the decorations. Whether you want heart topped dipped berries or a simple drizzle, the choice is yours.
- Perfect for Any Occasion. While they are the ultimate Valentine’s Day chocolate covered strawberries, they work just as well for birthdays, graduations, or even a Valentines Sweets Charcuterie Board Recipe.
- Naturally Gluten Free. This is a wonderful dessert option for friends with dietary restrictions because it focuses on fruit and high quality chocolate.
Ingredients for XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
To get that Berrylicious Bouquets look, you need to start with the best ingredients. Here is what we keep on our counter:
- 1 lb Fresh Strawberries: Look for firm, ripe berries with vibrant green leaves still attached. Ensure they are dry before you start.
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: This provides that classic, rich flavor. You can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter profile.
- 1/2 cup White Chocolate: This is for the “XOXO” lettering and the contrasting drizzles.
- 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil: Divided between the two chocolates. This helps with a smooth flow and gives the chocolate a professional sheen. You can use avocado oil as a substitution.
- Optional Toppings: We love using freeze dried strawberries crushed into dust, toasted coconut, or finely chopped pistachios for added texture.
How to Make XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Gently wash your strawberries and pat them dry with a lint free towel. This is the most important step. If the berries are even slightly damp, the chocolate dipped fruit will seize and the shell will fall off. I usually let mine air dry for an hour on the counter.
- Set Up Your Station: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Melt the Darker Chocolate: In a microwave safe bowl, combine the semi sweet chocolate and half of the coconut oil. Heat in 30 second intervals, stirring in between. Once it is mostly melted, stir until the residual heat finishes the job. This prevents the chocolate from burning.
- The First Dip: Holding the strawberry by the green stems, dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling slightly to coat it about three quarters of the way up. Lift and let the excess drip off. Place it gently on the parchment paper. Repeat for all berries and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.
- Melt the White Chocolate: Use the same microwave method for the white chocolate and remaining coconut oil. White chocolate is more heat sensitive, so use 15 second intervals.
- Add the XOXOs: Transfer the melted white chocolate to a piping bag with a very small tip or a plastic bag with a tiny corner snipped off. Carefully pipe “X” and “O” shapes onto the set dark chocolate. If you are feeling extra festive, you can try making small hearts as well.
- Final Chill: Let the XOXO berries sit in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes until the white chocolate is completely firm.
Pro Tips & Variations
Making chocolate strawberries is an art that I have refined over years of celebrations. If you want to take your dipped strawberries to the next level, consider these tips:
The Temperature Matters: Never dip a cold berry into hot chocolate. The temperature shock causes condensation. Let your berries come to room temperature before dipping, but make sure they are still firm. For more technical tips on handling sweets, you can check out this guide on properly tempering chocolate for dipping.
Variation 1: The Crunch Factor. Jana loves it when we roll the wet chocolate in chopped nuts or toasted coconut before it sets. It adds a wonderful savory element that balances the sugar.
Variation 2: Double Dipped. For a truly decadent treat, dip the berry in white chocolate first, let it set, and then dip the bottom half in semi sweet chocolate for a tuxedo effect. This is a common technique used for gourmet chocolate strawberries found in high end boutiques.
Variation 3: Spicy Kick. If you are making these for adults, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the dark chocolate. It brings out the depth of the cocoa and pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine.
XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries Serving Suggestions
While these are amazing on their own, I love serving them as part of a larger dessert spread. If you want to create a full experience, pair them with these ideas:
The Wine Pairing: A sweet Moscato or a dry Champagne is traditional, but Emily and I often enjoy these with a bold Cabernet. The dark chocolate and red fruit notes in the wine mirror the dessert perfectly.
The Dessert Buffet: Place these on a platter alongside some Pink Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Recipe for a beautiful color gradient. I also like to serve them with Perfect Meringue Kisses Recipe because the textures are so different. The light, airy meringue against the rich, snap of the chocolate is a match made in heaven.
The Picnic Style: If we are taking these to a family gathering, I bring along some Easy Homemade Butter Toffee Pretzels Recipe. Having that salty, crunchy option next to the soft, sweet strawberries keeps everyone reaching for more.
XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries Storage & Reheating
Chocolate covered fruit is best enjoyed the day it is made. However, if you have leftovers, here is how to handle them:
Refrigerator: Place the berries in a single layer in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The paper towel absorbs any moisture that might bleed from the strawberry. They will stay good for about 24 to 48 hours. After that, the berry inside starts to soften and release juice.
Freezer: I do not recommend freezing fresh chocolate covered strawberries if you intend to eat them thawed, because the texture becomes mushy. However, frozen chocolate strawberries are a delicious icy treat! Just eat them straight from the freezer.
Reheating: You obviously do not want to reheat the strawberry itself, but if your leftover chocolate has hardened in the bowl, you can reheat it in 10 second bursts to use for drizzling over ice cream.
FAQ about XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
How do I stop the chocolate from sweating? Sweating happens because of moisture or drastic temperature changes. Ensure your berries are bone dry before dipping and avoid moving them in and out of a very cold fridge repeatedly.
What is the best chocolate for dipping? For the best chocolate covered strawberries recipe, I suggest using high quality chocolate bars chopped up or high end chips. Brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard melt smoothly and have a better flavor than generic store brands. You can also refer to Ree Drummond’s tips for chocolate dipping for extra inspiration.
Can I make these a day in advance? Yes, you can. Just be sure to store them in the fridge and keep them away from any strong smelling foods like onions or garlic, as chocolate can absorb those odors.
Final Thoughts
Writing this out has made me realize just how much these small kitchen moments mean to me. It is not just about the chocolate strawberries, it is about the look on Jana’s face when she masters the perfect “O” or the way Adams tries to “quality control” test every third berry. Cooking is a way to say I love you without having to say a word. I hope this recipe finds a place in your home and creates a few smiles around your table. If you enjoyed this, please save it to your favorite Pinterest board and leave a comment below. I would love to hear about your own family traditions! Do not forget to subscribe to the MisterRecipes newsletter for more heart filled kitchen stories.
XOXO Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gently wash the strawberries and pat them dry with a lint-free towel. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent chocolate from seizing.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 0.5 tablespoon coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted dark chocolate, swirling to coat about three-quarters of the way up. Let excess drip off and place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all strawberries.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes until set.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and remaining 0.5 tablespoon coconut oil. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or plastic bag with a tiny corner snipped off.
- Pipe 'X' and 'O' shapes or designs onto the set dark chocolate. Optionally, roll in toppings while chocolate is wet.
- Place the decorated strawberries back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes until white chocolate is firm.
