Weight Watchers Black and White Strawberries: A Sophisticated Delight

I still remember the first time I saw these elegant strawberries in a Weight Watchers cookbook, their glossy dark chocolate coating artfully drizzled with stark white chocolate. It wasn’t just the visual appeal; it was the hint of raspberry liqueur that truly piqued my culinary curiosity. This wasn’t your average chocolate-dipped strawberry; this was a sophisticated, almost Parisian, confection that felt surprisingly accessible, even for a weeknight treat. The promise of a mere 2 points per serving felt like a delicious secret, a way to indulge in something decadent without the guilt.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using just a handful of high-quality ingredients to create something truly special.

• 2 cups strawberries: Choose plump, ripe strawberries with their hulls intact. The vibrant red of the berries will provide a beautiful contrast to the dark and white chocolate.
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips: These will form the rich, dark coating. Using chips ensures even melting.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons raspberry liqueur: This is the secret ingredient that elevates these strawberries from good to unforgettable, adding a subtle fruity aroma and depth.
• 1/2 ounce white chocolate, chopped (or 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips): This is used for the delicate drizzling, adding a visual flair and a creamy counterpoint to the dark chocolate.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a lot of fancy equipment for this delightful treat, just a few kitchen staples:

• Microwave-safe bowls: Two small bowls are ideal for melting the chocolates separately.
• Whisk or spoon: For stirring the melted chocolate.
• Fork: For drizzling the white chocolate.
• Large baking sheet: To hold the strawberries while they set.
• Wax paper: To prevent the chocolate from sticking to the baking sheet.

Instructions

Crafting these black and white beauties is a straightforward process, but attention to detail will ensure a flawless finish.

1. Prepare your workspace: Begin by lining a large baking sheet with wax paper. This protective layer is crucial for easy removal of the chocolate-dipped strawberries once they’ve hardened.
2. Melt the dark chocolate: In a small microwavable bowl, combine the 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips, the 1/2 ounce chopped white chocolate, and the 1 1/2 teaspoons raspberry liqueur. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of water to the mixture. Microwave this combination on High power, stirring twice during the process, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1 1/2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent scorching.
3. Dip the strawberries: Holding a strawberry by its green hull, carefully dip the berry halfway into the luscious, melted dark chocolate mixture. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl for a cleaner finish.
4. Set the first layer: Place the chocolate-dipped strawberry onto the prepared wax paper on the baking sheet.
5. Repeat the dipping process: Continue this dipping and setting process with the remaining strawberries and the dark chocolate mixture until all the berries are coated.
6. Melt the white chocolate: In another small microwavable bowl, place the 1/2 ounce white chocolate, chopped (or 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips). Microwave this on High power, stirring once, until it is melted and smooth. This should take approximately 1 minute. Be cautious, as white chocolate can be more prone to overheating than dark chocolate.
7. Drizzle the white chocolate: Once the white chocolate is melted and smooth, dip a fork into it. Carefully and artfully drizzle the white chocolate over the already chocolate-coated strawberries. Aim for thin, elegant lines to create that striking black and white contrast.
8. Chill to set: Place the entire baking sheet into the refrigerator. Refrigerate until the chocolate has completely hardened. This chilling process is essential for achieving the perfect texture and presentation.
9. Serve: Once the chocolate is firm, serve the strawberries chilled.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Elevating these simple strawberries to something truly spectacular is all about a few chef-inspired touches.

• Strawberry Selection is Key: For the best results, opt for strawberries that are firm, vibrant, and relatively uniform in size. This ensures even dipping and a more attractive presentation. Make sure they are completely dry before dipping to help the chocolate adhere properly.
• Temperature Matters: When melting chocolate, low and slow is often the best approach, especially in a microwave. Stirring frequently helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevents scorching. If you find your chocolate is too thick, you can add a tiny bit more water (1/4 teaspoon at a time) to the dark chocolate mixture, or a tiny amount of vegetable oil to the white chocolate, to achieve a smoother, more dippable consistency.
• The Art of the Drizzle: For that elegant white chocolate drizzle, use the back of a spoon or a small piping bag with a very fine tip if you’re feeling ambitious. A fork works wonderfully for a more rustic, yet still beautiful, effect. Don’t overdo the drizzle; a few well-placed lines are more impactful than a thick coating.
• Preventing Condensation: To avoid that dreaded condensation on your chocolate-dipped strawberries once they are out of the fridge, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This helps the chocolate temper gradually, minimizing moisture build-up.
• Liqueur Variations: While raspberry liqueur adds a lovely nuance, feel free to experiment with other complementary flavors like a splash of orange liqueur (Grand Marnier or Cointreau) or even a hint of mint extract for a different twist. Just be mindful of the amount, as too much can affect the chocolate’s texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Black and White Strawberries are a delightful treat to serve as a light dessert, a sophisticated appetizer at a party, or even a sweet ending to a romantic dinner. Their elegant appearance makes them a showstopper, and their light point value means they can be enjoyed guilt-free.

For the best flavor and texture, serve these strawberries chilled, directly from the refrigerator. Arrange them on a pretty platter, perhaps garnished with a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the texture of the strawberries might soften slightly over time, and the chocolate can develop a light bloom if stored for too long. It’s best to enjoy them as fresh as possible for optimal enjoyment. Avoid storing them at room temperature for extended periods, as the chocolate will melt.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, keeping in mind these are approximate values.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	92.4 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	–	44%
Total Fat	4.5 g	6%
Saturated Fat	2.6 g	12%
Cholesterol	0.5 mg	0%
Sodium	5.1 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	14.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	2.1 g	8%
Sugars	11.2 g	44%
Protein	1.1 g	2%

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and precise measurements.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic combination of dark and white chocolate with raspberry liqueur is divine, feel free to explore these variations:

• Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. Ensure your chosen vegan chocolate brands melt and set well.
• A Splash of Other Spirits: If raspberry liqueur isn’t your preference, a small amount of Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or even a hint of rum can add a unique flavor profile.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate finely grated orange or lemon zest into the white chocolate drizzle for a bright, refreshing note.
• Nutty Crunch: Before the chocolate fully sets, sprinkle the dipped strawberries with finely chopped toasted almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these strawberries ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, they are best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.

Q: Why is my chocolate not melting smoothly?
A: Ensure you are using the microwave in short intervals and stirring frequently. Overheating or scorching is a common cause of grainy or clumpy chocolate. Using good quality chocolate chips also makes a difference.

Q: How do I get the chocolate to harden properly?
A: Consistent chilling in the refrigerator is key. Ensure the chocolate coating is fully set and firm before attempting to serve or store them.

Q: Can I dip the entire strawberry?
A: While you can dip the entire strawberry, leaving a bit of the red showing can be visually appealing. The recipe suggests dipping halfway, which creates a beautiful two-toned effect.

Q: What if I don’t have raspberry liqueur?
A: You can omit it entirely, or substitute with a tiny splash of raspberry extract dissolved in a teaspoon of water, or even a very small amount of raspberry jam, strained to remove solids, though this may slightly alter the chocolate’s texture.

Final Thoughts

These Weight Watchers Black and White Strawberries are a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing indulgence. They are a perfect example of how simple, elegant ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free dessert to satisfy a sweet craving or an impressive treat to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give them a try, and experience the delightful fusion of rich chocolate, bright berries, and a whisper of raspberry magic. I’d love to hear how yours turn out!