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When you crave something sweet and refreshing without turning on the oven, this chocolate covered strawberry smoothie delivers a dessert-like treat in sippable form. Inspired by those elegant chocolate-dipped berries from my childhood birthday parties, this smoothie blends creamy ice cream and juicy strawberries with extra chocolate in every layer. It is as fun to assemble as it is to drink, making it perfect for celebrations or just a little midweek indulgence.
I whipped this up for my niece’s sleepover and the kids could not stop talking about the fancy chocolate-dipped glasses. Now we use this recipe for most special brunches too.
Ingredients
- Frozen strawberries: provide fruity sweetness and frosty texture Choose plump firm strawberries without freezer burn for best results
- Vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream: makes the base rich and creamy Go for a brand with real vanilla for extra flavor
- Chocolate sauce: deepens the dessert vibes Pick a high-quality bottled sauce or make your own if you have time
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: give the rim a bold chocolate burst Choose shiny unbroken chips for easy melting
- Coconut oil: helps the rim chocolate set smoothly Look for extra virgin coconut oil for mild coconut flavor
- Fresh whole strawberries and extra chocolate sauce: are perfect for garnish Pick berries that are red all the way through for both beauty and taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Rim:
- Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a heatproof bowl using gentle microwave intervals or a stovetop double boiler method Stir constantly until the mixture is silky smooth, then pour onto a flat plate Spread the chocolate into a circle slightly larger than your glass rim Dip the chilled glass into the chocolate Twisting gently will give an even coating If you want a dramatic dripping effect, use a spoon to add some extra chocolate along the rim Let the chocolate set by placing the glass in the refrigerator
- Make the Smoothie:
- Place the frozen strawberries, ice cream, and chocolate sauce in your blender Blend on high speed until the smoothie is completely smooth and thick The strawberries should be fully combined with no chunks left
- Assemble and Serve:
- Take the set chocolate-rimmed glass from the fridge Immediately pour the smoothie into the glass swirling it gently to show off the texture If you like, garnish with a chocolate covered strawberry perched right on the rim and drizzle with more chocolate sauce for a bakery-worthy finish
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I absolutely love the chocolate rim because it transports me straight back to birthday parties at my grandmother’s house We used to sneak the leftover dipped strawberries for breakfast the next morning and that taste inspired this entire recipe
Storage Tips
This smoothie is best served immediately since the ice cream and fruit blend may begin to separate after standing for a while If you need to prep in advance store the blended base in the freezer and give it a quick reblend before serving The chocolate rim can be prepared ahead and kept chilled for an hour or so
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in chocolate ice cream for even more intense chocolate flavor Frozen blueberries or raspberries are tasty twists on the strawberry base If you do not have coconut oil a neutral oil like grapeseed will help your chocolate rim stay glossy
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smoothies in tall glasses topped with skewered chocolate strawberries and a straw For a party tray set up a little garnish bar where everyone can dip and decorate their own glass All this needs is a bowl of whipped cream on the side for true shake shop nostalgia
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A Little History
Chocolate covered strawberries became popular at fancy events in the 1960s and are still a classic sign of celebration Turning them into a drink is a playful way to enjoy the famous flavor combination while keeping things cool Easy enough for kids and nostalgic for grown-ups
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I make the chocolate rim stick to the glass?
Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then dip the glass rim and chill it to set for a glossy, smooth coating.
- → Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, but frozen strawberries help create a thicker, colder texture. If using fresh, add a few ice cubes for consistency.
- → What type of ice cream works best?
Vanilla or cookies & cream ice cream provide a creamy base that pairs well with chocolate and strawberries.
- → Is there a substitute for chocolate sauce?
Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate can be used as a replacement for the chocolate sauce in the smoothie.
- → How can I garnish for a festive look?
Top with a chocolate-covered strawberry and an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce for a beautiful finish.