Method
- Step 1: Wash strawberries gently under cool water, keeping stems intact. Pat completely dry with paper towels, then let them air-dry at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until no moisture remains on surface. Meanwhile, line baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.Step 2: Carefully insert wooden skewer into bottom (hulled end) of each strawberry, pushing it about halfway through berry but not so far that it pokes out the top. Angle skewer slightly toward center for stability. Set prepared strawberries aside.Step 3: Melt dark chocolate in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and completely melted (about 90 seconds total). If using coconut oil, stir it in now. Let chocolate cool for 2-3 minutes until it feels barely warm to touch but remains fluid and pourable.Step 4: Holding skewer, dip each strawberry into melted chocolate at angle, rotating to coat evenly. Some strawberries dip completely covering entire berry, some dip only halfway for variety. Gently shake off excess chocolate, then place on prepared baking sheet standing upright or laying on side with skewer extending off edge.Step 5: While dark chocolate is still wet, add decorations: apply tiny pieces of edible gold leaf with clean tweezers, or sprinkle with chopped nuts or colored sprinkles. Work quickly before chocolate sets (about 2-3 minutes at room temperature).Step 6: Refrigerate chocolate-dipped strawberries for 10-15 minutes until chocolate sets completely and feels firm to touch. Meanwhile, melt white chocolate in microwave same way as dark chocolate. Transfer melted white chocolate to small piping bag or zip-top bag with tiny corner snipped off.Step 7: Remove strawberries from refrigerator and drizzle white chocolate over dark chocolate coating in decorative zigzag or stripe patterns. Return to refrigerator for 5 minutes to set white chocolate. Arrange finished strawberry "flowers" in vase or jar, spacing them evenly to create bouquet effect. Fill container bottom with crumpled tissue paper to help hold skewers upright, or use styrofoam block. Tie ribbon around container if desired. Keep refrigerated until ready to gift, then present immediately for maximum impact. Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (per strawberry): Carbs: 12g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g