Description
Looking for a quick, festive treat to light up your Fourth of July celebration? These Red, White, & Blue Strawberries are the perfect solution! Juicy strawberries dipped in creamy white chocolate and rolled in vibrant red, white, and blue sprinkles make for a delicious, no-bake dessert that’s as beautiful as it is easy.
Ingredients
The Red, White, & Blue Strawberries come together with just a few ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:
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Strawberries (24 medium-large, with stems and leaves):
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The fresh, juicy base of the treat, providing a natural red color and sweet-tart flavor. Keeping stems on makes dipping easier and adds a rustic look.
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Substitution: Raspberries or cherries for a similar red fruit, but strawberries are classic for size and shape.
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White Chocolate Chips (1 cup, or white candy melts):
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Forms a smooth, sweet coating that holds the sprinkles and complements the berries. White chocolate keeps the patriotic color scheme.
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Substitution: White candy melts for easier melting or white baking chocolate. Dark or milk chocolate can work but alters the look.
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Red, White, & Blue Sprinkles (â…“ cup):
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Add a crunchy, festive touch with patriotic colors, mimicking fireworks.
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Substitution: Patriotic non-pareils, jimmies, or star-shaped sprinkles, or other colored sprinkles for different holidays.
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Gel Food Coloring (2–3 drops, optional):
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Can tint the white chocolate for a bolder white or slight blue/red hue if desired.
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Substitution: Liquid food coloring, but use sparingly to avoid thinning the chocolate.
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Tip: Choose firm, ripe strawberries for easy dipping, and ensure they’re completely dry to help the chocolate adhere.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Strawberries and Workspace
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Wash 24 medium-large strawberries gently under cold water, keeping the stems and leaves intact. Pat thoroughly dry with paper towels.
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Line a platter or baking sheet with waxed paper to place the dipped strawberries on for setting.
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Pour â…“ cup red, white, and blue sprinkles into a shallow bowl for easy dipping. If using gel food coloring, have it ready.
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Tip: Dry strawberries completely to prevent the chocolate from seizing or sliding off.
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Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
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In a double boiler, melt 1 cup white chocolate chips over a low simmer of water, stirring constantly to ensure even melting. If using gel food coloring, add 2–3 drops for a tinted effect and stir well.
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Remove from heat as soon as the chocolate is smooth and fully melted to avoid scorching.
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Tip: If you don’t have a double boiler, use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Alternatively, microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted.
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Step 3: Dip the Strawberries
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Holding a strawberry by the stem, dip and twist it into the melted white chocolate, covering about ¾ of the berry to leave some red showing at the top.
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Let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl by gently shaking or tapping the strawberry.
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Tip: Work quickly to keep the chocolate smooth, and dip one berry at a time to ensure sprinkles adhere.
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Step 4: Add Sprinkles
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Immediately roll or dip the chocolate-coated portion of the strawberry into the red, white, and blue sprinkles, covering the white chocolate area.
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Place the decorated strawberry on the waxed paper to set.
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Repeat with the remaining strawberries, reheating the chocolate gently if it starts to thicken.
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Tip: Vary the sprinkle application—some fully coated, some lightly sprinkled—for a dynamic look.
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Step 5: Let Set
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Allow the strawberries to set on the waxed paper at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until the chocolate is firm. For faster setting, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
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Tip: Avoid refrigerating for too long, as condensation can make the strawberries weepy.
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Step 6: Serve or Store
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Once set, gently lift the strawberries from the waxed paper (they should release easily) and arrange on a serving platter.
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Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
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If making ahead, store on waxed paper at room temperature for up to 8 hours. Do not refrigerate or cover to prevent moisture buildup.
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Tip: Serve on a chilled platter to keep berries fresh during outdoor events.
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