Why You’ll Love Best Chocolate Covered Strawberries in Cup Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Perfect for serving at gatherings or gifting
Elegant presentation without the need for special tools
Fully customizable with chocolate types and toppings
No baking required — just melt, dip, and chill
Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Naturally gluten-free
Made with simple ingredients
Delicious balance of sweet, tart, and rich flavors
Scalable for small or large batches

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh strawberries (about 12, washed and fully dried)
Chocolate chips or chunks (semi-sweet, milk, or dark – about ⅔ cup)
Coconut oil or vegetable oil (1½ tablespoons)
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: crushed nuts, sprinkles, shredded coconut, or drizzle of white chocolate
Small serving cups or dessert glasses

Directions

Thoroughly wash the strawberries and dry them completely. Moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking properly.
Remove the stems if desired, or leave them on for presentation and easier dipping.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and oil. Microwave in 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Stand 3 to 4 strawberries upright in each small cup or dessert glass.
Slowly pour the melted chocolate over the strawberries in each cup, letting it drip between the berries and collect at the bottom.
Add optional toppings while the chocolate is still warm, if desired.
Chill the cups in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
Serve cold or allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for softer chocolate.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 cups (3 strawberries per cup)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Chocolate types: Mix white, milk, and dark chocolate for contrast and layered flavors.
Toppings: Try chopped pistachios, toasted coconut, crushed cookies, or sea salt flakes.
Filling base: Add a layer of crushed graham crackers or brownie bites at the bottom of each cup before adding strawberries.
Fruit swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, banana slices, or pineapple chunks.
Vegan version: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil.

Storage/Reheating

Store chocolate-covered strawberries in their cups in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or a lid. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal texture. Avoid freezing, as strawberries can become mushy once thawed. There’s no reheating needed — just let them sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep the chocolate smooth and shiny?

Adding oil when melting the chocolate helps it stay glossy and smooth. Be sure to melt it slowly and stir frequently.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are strongly recommended, as frozen ones release too much moisture and can cause the chocolate to seize or slide off.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works well for a rich flavor. Milk chocolate is sweeter and white chocolate adds a nice contrast.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Tempering isn’t necessary for this recipe since the strawberries are served in cups and chilled. The added oil helps give a nice finish without tempering.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Store them in the fridge and serve the same day for best results.

How can I make them look fancier?

Use clear cups or glassware, drizzle with white chocolate, or top with edible gold dust or crushed candy.

What should I do if the chocolate hardens before I finish?

Gently reheat it in the microwave in short bursts and stir until smooth again.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe scales well — just melt more chocolate and prep more strawberries and cups.

Should the strawberries be at room temperature?

It’s best to let them come to room temperature before dipping, as cold strawberries can cause the chocolate to harden too quickly or crack.

How do I transport these without smudging the chocolate?

Place the cups in a tray or box and keep them upright. Chill them before transport so the chocolate stays firm.

Conclusion

Chocolate-covered strawberries in a cup are a beautiful and easy dessert anyone can make at home. With their rich coating, juicy center, and elegant presentation, they’re a great addition to parties, romantic dinners, or even as a homemade gift. Simple, versatile, and delicious — this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.