If you have a sweet tooth, you probably know that feeling that something chocolaty can solve almost all the world's problems. Very few snacks can lift the spirits quite like its rich and creamy melt-in-the-mouth taste but unfortunately, it's one of the most fattening snacks too. Luckily there is an alternative in the form of chocolate strawberries; they are healthy for you.
Chocolate was originally enjoyed as a bitter drink, like the Mayans and Aztecs had been making it for centuries before the Spanish Conquests. It was only at the end of the 18th century that it started becoming available as the solid confectionery most people know today. While it is high in fat and sugar and is definitely not good for you if you're watching your weight, it also has many health benefits, including the ability to help fight heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure.
Another cancer fighter is the strawberry with its high antioxidant and flavonoid content. It has more vitamin C than oranges and is a good source of manganese as well as potassium. To boot, each bite is a high-fiber, low-fat morsel of heaven.
Dip the little red fruit in the food of the gods and you have the best of both worlds. Depending on how big the strawberry is and the thickness of the creamy coating, there are more of less 40 calories in each portion. This is obviously a much better option than a cupcake with frosting and cream filling, clocking in at nearly 200 calories, or a small doughnut with glaze at about 120 calories. Even a bland mini doughnut with no sugar coating it has around 60 calories and none of the taste. The snack is even a better option than granola bars, which can contain as much as 200 calories.
Making the snacks is incredibly easy and you can even get the kids to help. You'll need to melt about a cup of chocolate for every dozen strawberries. Then simply wash and dry the fruit very well, take each one by the stem and dip it into the melted bliss. Twirl it around a bit to let the excess drip back into the bowl and then place on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
You can experiment with white, milk or dark chocolate to find the variety you like best. You may even combine different types for an eye-catching snack. If you want, dip it in sprinkles or chopped nuts before letting it set.
The most difficult part of making the snacks is melting the chocolate. You can microwave it but take care not to burn it. Even just overheating it can thicken it. A safer bet is to use a bowl placed over some steaming water. Stir constantly and take care not to let any water get into the bowl or on the spoon you're using for stirring. Water can make the confectionery lumpy and you won't be able to use it.
Many confectioners sell ready-made chocolate strawberries. Some businesses will even deliver them. The treats are best eaten on the same day they're made but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Chocolate was originally enjoyed as a bitter drink, like the Mayans and Aztecs had been making it for centuries before the Spanish Conquests. It was only at the end of the 18th century that it started becoming available as the solid confectionery most people know today. While it is high in fat and sugar and is definitely not good for you if you're watching your weight, it also has many health benefits, including the ability to help fight heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure.
Another cancer fighter is the strawberry with its high antioxidant and flavonoid content. It has more vitamin C than oranges and is a good source of manganese as well as potassium. To boot, each bite is a high-fiber, low-fat morsel of heaven.
Dip the little red fruit in the food of the gods and you have the best of both worlds. Depending on how big the strawberry is and the thickness of the creamy coating, there are more of less 40 calories in each portion. This is obviously a much better option than a cupcake with frosting and cream filling, clocking in at nearly 200 calories, or a small doughnut with glaze at about 120 calories. Even a bland mini doughnut with no sugar coating it has around 60 calories and none of the taste. The snack is even a better option than granola bars, which can contain as much as 200 calories.
Making the snacks is incredibly easy and you can even get the kids to help. You'll need to melt about a cup of chocolate for every dozen strawberries. Then simply wash and dry the fruit very well, take each one by the stem and dip it into the melted bliss. Twirl it around a bit to let the excess drip back into the bowl and then place on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
You can experiment with white, milk or dark chocolate to find the variety you like best. You may even combine different types for an eye-catching snack. If you want, dip it in sprinkles or chopped nuts before letting it set.
The most difficult part of making the snacks is melting the chocolate. You can microwave it but take care not to burn it. Even just overheating it can thicken it. A safer bet is to use a bowl placed over some steaming water. Stir constantly and take care not to let any water get into the bowl or on the spoon you're using for stirring. Water can make the confectionery lumpy and you won't be able to use it.
Many confectioners sell ready-made chocolate strawberries. Some businesses will even deliver them. The treats are best eaten on the same day they're made but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
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