Quick Answer
A chocolate covered strawberry contains approximately 50-80 calories depending on the size of the strawberry and amount of chocolate. A medium strawberry with a thin layer of chocolate will be around 50 calories, while a large strawberry dipped in thick chocolate can be 80 calories or more. The strawberry itself provides most of the calories, while the chocolate coating adds extra fat and sugar.
Calculating Calories in Chocolate Covered Strawberries
To determine how many calories are in a chocolate covered strawberry, you need to look at the calories in the individual components:
Calories in Strawberries
One medium strawberry (about 1 1/4″ diameter) contains around 33 calories. This can vary slightly depending on the exact size.
Larger strawberries will have more calories. For example, one large strawberry (1 1/2″ diameter) contains about 43 calories.
Strawberries are low in calories because they are high in water content and fiber. A cup of sliced strawberries contains around 50 calories.
Calories in Chocolate
The amount of chocolate covering the strawberry can vary greatly, from just a light drizzle to a thick coating. More chocolate means more calories.
One teaspoon of milk chocolate chips contains about 15 calories. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are slightly lower, with about 13 calories per teaspoon.
White chocolate is higher in calories, with around 26 calories per teaspoon.
So a light sprinkling of chocolate chips may add only 5-10 calories, while a thick layer could add 15 calories or more to the total.
Putting it Together
A medium strawberry with a light coating of chocolate will contain around 50 calories (33 for the strawberry + 15 for chocolate).
A large strawberry with a heavy layer of chocolate could have 80 calories or more (43 for strawberry + 30 for chocolate).
Of course, the serving size matters too. Eating 5 chocolate covered strawberries will add up to a lot more calories than just eating one!
Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Beyond just calories, here are some of the key nutrition facts for chocolate covered strawberries:
Fat
– Strawberries are very low in fat, with less than half a gram per medium berry.
– The chocolate adds saturated fat. A light coating has about 1 gram saturated fat, while a thicker layer could have 2-3 grams.
Carbs
– A medium strawberry has around 8 grams of carbs, which is mostly from natural sugars.
– The chocolate adds more carbs. A teaspoon of chips is around 2 grams carbs.
Protein
– Strawberries and chocolate both provide minimal protein, less than 1 gram each.
Vitamin C
– Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C. One medium berry has about 85% of the RDI for vitamin C.
Fiber
– Strawberries contain 2 grams fiber per cup. The chocolate does not add any additional fiber.
Iron
– Strawberries contain some iron, about 3% of the RDI per cup.
Health Benefits of Strawberries
Although chocolate covered strawberries may have more calories and fat than fresh strawberries alone, they still provide excellent health benefits thanks to the strawberry:
Rich in Antioxidants
Strawberries contain polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. These include anthocyanins, which give strawberries their red color.
May Improve Heart Health
The fiber, folate, and potassium in strawberries can help reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Potential Cancer Prevention
Some studies suggest the antioxidant content of strawberries may help prevent cancer cell growth and tumor formation. More human research is needed.
May Aid Blood Sugar Control
Despite their sweet taste, strawberries have a low glycemic index, meaning they won’t spike blood sugar dangerously. Fiber helps slow sugar absorption.
Support Immune Function
The vitamin C in strawberries acts as an antioxidant that can boost immune health and help ward off infections. Just one cup exceeds the RDI for vitamin C.
Tips for Enjoying Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Chocolate covered strawberries make for a delicious and romantic dessert. Here are some serving tips:
– Use high quality dark chocolate for the most flavor and antioxidants.
– Let the chocolate set fully before serving so it hardens around the berry.
– Skewer them with toothpicks for easy grabbing and minimal mess.
– Arrange artfully on a platter for parties, holidays, or special occasions.
– Store leftovers in the fridge but bring back to room temperature before serving.
– Substitute fresh raspberries or blackberries for different fruit flavors.
– Drizzle with white chocolate strips or sprinkles for extra decoration.
– Slice strawberries in half for bite-sized pieces kids will love.
– Serve alongside other dipped fruits like bananas or pineapple chunks.
– Pair with sliced angel food cake for a dessert trifle.
– Give as edible gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and holidays like Valentine’s Day.
Simple Chocolate Covered Strawberry Recipe
This basic recipe yields around 12 chocolate covered strawberries:
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh strawberries with stems, washed and dried
– 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Wash and dry strawberries thoroughly, leave stems on. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
2. Chop chocolate into small pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl with coconut oil. Microwave in 30 second bursts, stirring between each, until just melted and smooth.
3. Holding by the stem, dip each strawberry into melted chocolate, tilting bowl to coat 3/4 of the way up. Gently shake off any excess chocolate.
4. Place dipped strawberries on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until chocolate sets, about 30 minutes.
5. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 2-3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
For photo-worthy, gourmet quality chocolate covered strawberries, drizzle with extra white chocolate, decorate with sprinkles, or use a fork to create stripes of chocolate on each berry. Enjoy!
Buying Chocolate Covered Strawberries
For convenience, chocolate covered strawberries can also be purchased pre-made:
Grocery Stores
Many grocery store chains like Safeway, Kroger, and Wegmans sell fresh chocolate covered strawberries in the produce section, often near the prepared fruits and veggies. These are best when eaten within a day or two.
Chocolate Shops
Specialty chocolate shops like Godiva and Ghirardelli offer high quality chocolate covered strawberries in boutique packaging. These make great gifts but are expensive, often $3-$5 per strawberry.
Edible Arrangements
Edible Arrangements sells chocolate dipped strawberries alongside cut fruit arrangements. Prices vary by location but expect around $20 for a small box of 4-6 berries.
Local Bakeries
Many cupcake shops and bakeries also make chocolate covered strawberries. Support small business while getting freshly dipped, artisanal berries.
Online
Harry & David, 1-800-Flowers and other retailers sell chocolate covered strawberries online that are shipped overnight, although quality may vary. Check reviews before ordering.
While pre-made options are convenient, do-it-yourself chocolate covered strawberries usually taste freshest!
Healthy Chocolate Covered Strawberry Alternatives
For a lower calorie, healthier treat, try these lighter chocolate covered strawberry options:
Use Less Chocolate
Minimize calories by dipping just the very bottom of the berry in chocolate, rather than coating the entire surface. Or drizzle thinly.
Dark Chocolate
Opt for dark chocolate, which is lower in sugar than milk chocolate. Look for 60% cacao or higher.
Yogurt Dipped
Replace chocolate with tangy Greek yogurt for a fresh twist with less fat.
Cacao Nibs
Roll strawberries in crunchy cacao nibs for chocolate flavor without the added oils and sugars.
Cocoa Powder
Lightly dust strawberries in unsweetened cocoa powdermixed with stevia for just a hint of chocolate.
Chocolate Protein Dip
Blend cocoa powder and protein powder with milk or yogurt for a chocolatey, high protein dip.
Chocolate Hummus
Swirl cocoa powder into hummus and dip strawberries for plant-based protein.
Melted Peanut Butter
Use just a drizzle of naturally sweet peanut butter instead of chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do chocolate covered strawberries have so many calories?
The calories in chocolate covered strawberries come mostly from the sugar and fat found naturally in strawberries and added in the chocolate coating. Sugar has 4 calories per gram, while fat has 9 calories per gram. Even small amounts add up quickly.
Are chocolate covered strawberries healthy?
While not the lowest calorie dessert option, chocolate covered strawberries can still be part of a healthy diet in moderation thanks to the nutrients in strawberries like vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Enjoy them occasionally as a treat.
Can you freeze chocolate covered strawberries?
Yes, freezing is a great way to preserve fresh chocolate covered strawberries for 4-6 months. Place them in a single layer on a tray and freeze, then transfer to an airtight container once solid. Thaw at room temp for 1-2 hours before serving.
How long do chocolate covered strawberries last?
Refrigerated, fresh chocolate covered strawberries will last around 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze for 4-6 months. Thawed berries are best consumed within 24 hours.
What kind of chocolate is best for chocolate covered strawberries?
Use high quality dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for the richest flavor and smoothest texture when making chocolate covered strawberries. White chocolate or milk chocolate are also delicious but add more sugar.
Conclusion
Chocolate covered strawberries make for a decadent treat, with around 50-80 calories each depending on size and amount of chocolate. The strawberry itself provides the bulk of the calories, as well as beneficial nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. While not the lowest calorie dessert option, chocolate covered strawberries can still be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. To lighten them up, use less chocolate, choose a darker chocolate, or dip in yogurt or other fruit-based dips instead. Making them at home allows control over ingredients and portion sizes for the healthiest treat.
