If you’re looking for a simple and healthy Valentine’s Day idea, this is it. These chocolate covered strawberries are one of my favourite ways to make something feel special without much effort. You only need 3 ingredients—strawberries, dark chocolate, and chopped hazelnuts—but the result looks and tastes like something much fancier. They’re the kind of treat you can whip up in minutes for date night, Galentine’s Day, or just because you deserve something a little indulgent.
Not only do they taste amazing, but they also offer a surprising amount of nutrition: strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, dark chocolate (especially 70% or more) is full of polyphenols, and hazelnuts bring healthy fats and crunch. Plus, this is a fun one to make with kids or loved ones—it’s hands-on, a little bit messy, and very satisfying.
Ways To Enjoy Them
- Valentine’s Day treat: The perfect healthy dessert to celebrate love, whether it’s for your partner, your friends, or yourself
- Afternoon pick-me-up: Keep a few in the fridge or freezer for when you need a little energy boost that feels indulgent
- Party platter favourite: Great addition to dessert boards or grazing tables—eye-catching and universally loved
- Gift idea: Wrap a few in parchment and pop them in a small box or jar for a thoughtful, homemade gift
- Frozen summer snack: Eat straight from the freezer during warm weather for a refreshing, chocolatey bite
Tips
- Use dry strawberries: Make sure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping—any water can cause the chocolate to seize or not stick properly.
- Make it extra glossy: Add ½ tsp of coconut oil to your chocolate before melting for a shinier finish and smoother texture.
- No microwave? Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (bain-marie style).
- Want a neater finish? Use a fork or skewer to dip the strawberries—it keeps your fingers clean and gives better control.
- Set quickly: Chill the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to help the chocolate set fast and prevent it from melting or smudging.
- Presentation tip: Serve them on a pretty plate with a dusting of crushed nuts or edible petals if you’re feeling fancy!
Swaps
Dark chocolate: I always use 70% dark chocolate for all of my recipes, but if you’re not used to dark chocolate, try starting with 50–60% until you get used to the flavour.
Hazelnuts: Swap for any chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios—or leave them out completely if preferred.
Strawberries: You can also try this method with banana slices or mandarin segments!
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Eat straight from the freezer for a frozen dessert idea. Once frozen, don’t defrost as the strawberries will release water once defrosted and become soggy.
More Strawberry Recipes
Chocolate Covered Strawberry
Ingredients
- 9 strawberries
- 50 g dark chocolate, 70% dark chocolate
- 20 g chopped hazelnuts
Instructions
- Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
- Chop the dark chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and continue in 15-second intervals until fully melted.
- Line a tray with baking paper and keep it nearby.
- Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, place it on the tray, and immediately sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts before the chocolate sets.
- Repeat with the remaining strawberries.
- Transfer the tray to the freezer for 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.