Ingredients
Chocolate
- 1 lb pure dark chocolate bars
Fruit
- 30 pieces of fresh fruit (examples: strawberries, cherries, apple slices, banana pieces, pineapple chunks)
Optional Toppings
- Nuts, chopped (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
- White or milk chocolate for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to create a non-stick surface for the dipped fruit.
- Clean and dry fruit: Thoroughly wash and completely dry each piece of fruit to ensure chocolate adheres properly and prevents seizing.
- Chop chocolate: Coarsely chop all but 1/4 of the chocolate bars and finely chop the reserved quarter. Place the coarsely chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for melting.
- Initial melting: Microwave the coarsely chopped chocolate on full power for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat for another 30 seconds, stirring and scraping sides and bottom with a rubber spatula to prevent burning.
- Finish melting: Continue heating in short 5-10 second bursts, stirring vigorously after each, until about 70% of the chocolate is melted. Residual heat will melt the rest as you stir.
- Add finely chopped chocolate: Stir in half of the finely chopped reserved chocolate until fully melted to help temper the chocolate.
- Temper the chocolate: Gradually add the rest of the finely chopped chocolate in small spoonfuls, stirring continuously until all chocolate is melted and smooth. Test temper by dipping the back of a metal spoon; the chocolate should begin to set with a shiny finish without streaks after 5-8 minutes.
- Dip fruit: One by one, dip each piece of fruit into the tempered chocolate. Shake lightly or scrape off excess chocolate on the bowl rim to prevent thick clumps.
- Decorate if desired: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle nuts or sprinkles over the dipped fruit, or wait for it to set and drizzle with white or milk chocolate for added flair.
- Set and store: Place dipped fruit on the prepared baking sheet to set. Serve immediately or store uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Very dry fruits like strawberries and cherries can be left at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Notes
- Ensure fruit is completely dry to avoid chocolate seizing.
- Tempering chocolate properly is key for a glossy finish and good snap.
- Use a metal spoon to test temper; it should set with no streaks and a shiny surface.
- Store dipped fruit uncovered to prevent condensation softening the chocolate coating.
- Variations include different types of fresh fruits and optional toppings like nuts or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Melting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian