Chocolate Berry Clusters
Equipment
- silicone moulds optional
- parchment paper optional
Ingredients
- 250-300 g mixed berries about 100g
- 100 g chocolate melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Berries
Start by rinsing your mixed berries under cold water. If you’re using strawberries, halve/quarter them. Pat them dry with a clean towel gently to remove excess water; this is important as too much moisture can affect the chocolate coating.Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Next, melt the dark chocolate. You can do this either in the oven, microwave or on the stovetop.Oven Method:I used this, just break the dark chocolate into segments, add them to the silicon form and melt them in the oven on 160C for 5-8 minutes, just as much as you'd be able to add the berries on the top. Then place them into the fridge to solidify again. (Also they are much nicer chilled!)Microwave Method:Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl (you might want to add a little coconut oil too) and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. Mix in the berries, spread it out on the parchment paper or spoon it into silicone form. Into the fridge it goes.Stovetop Method:I don't use this method anymore as it makes chocolate melting more complicated for this little snack as it needs to be, however, it's still an option. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place a glass bowl over the pot, ensuring it does not touch the water. Add the chocolate and stir until melted. Mix in the berries, spread it out on the parchment paper or spoon it into silicone form. Into the fridge it goes.Step 3: Coat the Berries
Once the chocolate is melted, remove it from heat. Carefully dip the berries into the chocolate.Step 4: Create Clusters
After coating the berries, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Or as I did, use a silicone mould. You can create clusters by grouping several chocolate-covered berries together in small bunches. If you're adding nuts or shredded coconut, sprinkle them onto the wet chocolate before it hardens.Step 5: Chill to Set
Place the baking sheet or silicone mould in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set. If you're in a hurry, you can also pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate is firm to the touch, the clusters are ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them immediately, store them in an airtight container, or package them nicely as a homemade gift.