Easy Christmas Lights Chocolate Strawberries

Y’all, Christmas in Texas is a special kind of magic. Maybe it’s the twinkling lights against a backdrop of evergreens (or, let’s be honest, the occasional palm tree!), or maybe it’s the joy of spending time with family. This year, my kiddos wanted to create a festive treat that captured that sparkle – and what better way than with Christmas lights chocolate covered strawberries? I’ve made these little beauties three times already this season, tweaking the recipe each time until it was just right. Get ready for a fun, delicious, and super easy recipe that will have everyone saying “Merry Christmas!”

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s be real, during the holidays, time is precious! These Christmas lights chocolate covered strawberries are perfect because they’re:

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, tops. Perfect for when the kids are itching for a holiday activity.
• Kid-Approved: My little ones love helping decorate these. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make these a day in advance, which is a lifesaver when you’re hosting a party or need a last-minute dessert.
• Festive and Fun: These are sure to be a hit on your holiday dessert platter. The vibrant colors and simple design make them eye-catching and oh-so-tempting.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and thoroughly dried
• 12 ounces melting chocolate (dark, milk, or white), high quality
• Assorted candy melts or colored melting chocolate, for the “lights”
• Sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorations (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Strawberries: Make sure they are completely dry! Any moisture will prevent the chocolate from adhering properly. I like to wash them a few hours ahead and let them air dry on a paper towel-lined baking sheet.

Melting Chocolate: Use good quality melting chocolate. It makes a difference! Ghirardelli, Guittard, or even the melting wafers from the craft store work great. Avoid chocolate chips; they don’t melt as smoothly.

Candy Melts: These are what we’ll use for our “lights.” You can find them at most grocery stores or craft stores. Pick a variety of fun colors to make your strawberries extra festive. You can also use colored melting chocolate for this step.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Strawberries

Gently wash and thoroughly dry your strawberries. I cannot stress this enough: dry berries are essential for the chocolate to stick. Place the dried strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Melt your chosen chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Be careful not to overheat it! Overheated chocolate can seize up and become unusable. A smooth, glossy consistency is what we’re after.

Step 3: Dip the Strawberries

Hold each strawberry by the stem (or the very top if there is no stem), and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling to coat about two-thirds of the way up. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. I like to give it a gentle shake to help remove any extra drips.

Step 4: Add the “Lights”

Melt the different colors of candy melts in separate bowls or microwave-safe bags (snip off the corner to create a piping bag). While the chocolate on the strawberries is still wet, drizzle lines of melted candy melt across the strawberry. Then, using a toothpick or skewer, gently pull small dots of the colored chocolate down from the drizzle line to create the “lights.”

Step 5: Decorate (Optional)

If you’re using sprinkles or edible glitter, now’s the time to add them! Sprinkle them over the wet chocolate for a little extra sparkle. My kids love this part!

Step 6: Let Them Set

Place the strawberries in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set. This will prevent the lights from smearing.

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Don’t overcrowd the pot: When melting chocolate in a double boiler, make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. This will prevent the chocolate from burning.
• Prevent seizing: If your chocolate seizes (becomes thick and grainy), try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to smooth it out.
• Quick dry trick: If your strawberries are taking a while to dry, gently pat them with paper towels to speed up the process.
• Kid-friendly decorating: Let the kids decorate with small candies like mini M&Ms or nonpareils. Just make sure they’re having fun!
• Make ahead magic: Make these up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Flavor boost: Add a drop or two of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a festive flavor twist.

Storage & Meal Prep

Store these Christmas lights chocolate covered strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 1-2 days. The strawberries will start to release moisture after a couple of days, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

For meal prep, you can wash and dry the strawberries a day in advance. You can also melt the chocolate ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just re-melt it when you’re ready to dip.

Substitutions & Variations

Dietary Modifications:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and candy melts.
• Vegan: Make sure to use vegan chocolate and candy melts!

Ingredient Swaps:

• Chocolate: Use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for dipping.
• Candy Melts: If you can’t find candy melts, you can use melted white chocolate and food coloring to create different colors.
• Strawberries: These are also amazing made with raspberries or blackberries!

Seasonal Twists:

• Valentine’s Day: Use red and pink candy melts and heart-shaped sprinkles.
• Easter: Use pastel-colored candy melts and bunny-shaped sprinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can make these up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I keep the chocolate from seizing?

Be careful not to overheat the chocolate. Use low heat and stir frequently. If it does seize, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to smooth it out.

What if I don’t have candy melts?

You can use melted white chocolate and food coloring to create different colors. Just be sure to use oil-based food coloring, as water-based coloring can cause the chocolate to seize.

My chocolate is too thick. What should I do?

Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to thin it out. Stir well until it’s smooth and glossy.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely! These are a fun and easy activity to do with kids. Just supervise them when they’re working with hot chocolate.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 1-2 days.

Can I freeze these?

I don’t recommend freezing them. The strawberries will become mushy when thawed.

These Christmas lights chocolate covered strawberries aren’t just a dessert; they’re a little burst of holiday cheer! I love how simple they are to make, yet how festive and fun they look. They’re the perfect treat for parties, gifts, or just a sweet way to celebrate the season with your family. Give them a try, and don’t forget to let me know what you think in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more easy and delicious family recipes, be sure to check out FamiliesRecipes.com or sign up for my newsletter. Happy Holidays, y’all!

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