Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bark is a fun and delicious treat that combines sweet, juicy strawberries with rich, smooth chocolate. The crisp, crunchy bark is studded with pieces of fresh strawberries, making every bite a perfect balance of fruity and chocolaty flavors. It’s a simple dessert that’s both pretty and tasty, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special snack.
I love making this bark because it’s so easy to customize. Sometimes I sprinkle a little sea salt or add some chopped nuts on top for extra texture. The best part is how the chocolate hardens quickly, trapping all the strawberry goodness in a crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth treat. I often make a batch to have on hand when I want something sweet without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The way I like to serve it is by breaking it into irregular pieces and placing it on a small plate next to a cup of tea or coffee. It’s amazing how the strawberries add a fresh pop that keeps the chocolate from feeling too heavy. Plus, it’s a colorful and cheerful snack that always makes me smile, especially when friends come over and want to try a piece!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Chocolate: White chocolate chips or melting wafers work well for a smooth base. If you prefer dairy-free, look for vegan white chocolate or use white candy melts.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries add the best flavor and color. If you can’t find fresh, frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) can work but might add extra moisture, so use sparingly.
Milk Chocolate: The milk chocolate drizzle adds a nice contrast in flavor and color. You can swap for dark chocolate if you want a richer taste or to balance the sweetness.
Nuts & Cocoa Nibs: These add crunch and texture. If you’re nut-free, try crushed pretzels or toasted seeds as a crunchy alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Chocolate Sets Smoothly and Doesn’t Get Grainy?
Melting chocolate can be tricky if overheated or mixed with moisture. Follow these steps to get a silky smooth texture:
- Use short intervals (20-30 seconds) in the microwave, stirring well after each to prevent overheating.
- Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry to avoid seizing the chocolate.
- Stir gently but thoroughly when melting to distribute heat evenly.
- Spread the melted chocolate quickly on the baking sheet since it starts to harden fast at room temperature.
- Use a silicone spatula for smooth spreading and to scrape every last bit of chocolate from the bowl.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat – I like it because it keeps the chocolate from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Microwave-safe bowls – perfect for melting chocolate in short bursts without burning it.
- Spatula – I use it to spread the melted chocolate evenly and press strawberries into place.
- Piping bag or spoon – helps drizzle the melted chocolate for a pretty, decorative look.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped pistachios or sliced almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate in place of milk chocolate for a richer taste.
- Mix in dried fruit pieces or colorful sprinkles for a fun, festive touch.
- Top with shredded coconut or a light dusting of edible gold for an elegant look.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bark
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or white chocolate melting wafers
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips or milk chocolate melting wafers
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (optional, e.g., pecans or almonds)
- 1 tbsp cocoa nibs or crushed dark chocolate (optional for texture)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 20–30 minutes for the bark to set in the refrigerator or at room temperature until the chocolate hardens.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Work Surface:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the chocolate from sticking and to make cleanup easy.
2. Melt the White Chocolate:
Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Spread White Chocolate:
Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into a thin layer about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Add Strawberries and Toppings:
Quickly scatter the halved fresh strawberries over the melted white chocolate, gently pressing them to make sure they stick. Sprinkle chopped nuts and cocoa nibs on top if using.
5. Melt and Drizzle Milk Chocolate:
In a clean microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the strawberry bark using a spoon or a piping bag to create pretty patterns.
6. Let It Set:
Allow the bark to harden by leaving it at room temperature or placing it in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. Once fully set, break it into irregular pieces and serve.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Bark?
Frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain them first to prevent excess moisture, which can cause the chocolate to seize or become soft.
How Should I Store Leftover Strawberry Bark?
Store leftover bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh and crisp.
Can I Substitute Dark Chocolate for Milk Chocolate?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate will give your bark a richer flavor and balance the sweetness of the white chocolate and strawberries.
Can I Make This Bark Ahead of Time?
Yes! Make the bark a day in advance and store it in a cool, dry place. Just make sure to keep it airtight so it stays fresh and delicious.