Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters

Name: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Chocolate sprinkles for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Inspiration

I absolutely love creating desserts that not only look stunning but also taste incredible. These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters are one of my favorite treats to serve at gatherings or enjoy on a cozy night in. The rich chocolate mingles perfectly with the freshness of strawberries, and the layers of creamy goodness make each spoonful a delight. I can't get enough of their vibrant colors and delightful textures, making them a true showstopper at any occasion. They always leave everyone asking for more!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:41:36.845Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant they turned out. I always start with fresh strawberries, making sure they're perfectly ripe to bring out their natural sweetness. Layering the chocolate with creamy cheesecake filling is key to achieving that delightful balance of flavors and textures.

One tip I’ve learned is to chill the shooters for at least 15 minutes before serving. This not only helps the layers set better but also enhances the overall flavor. Trust me, this dessert will impress your guests and leave them wanting seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Decadent layers of cheesecake and chocolate ganache
Visually stunning and perfect for any occasion

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for this recipe, as their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor enhance the overall taste of the dessert shooters. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free from blemishes. Ideally, you want berries that are in season, as they'll be the most flavorful. I recommend washing them gently right before you use them to avoid excess moisture that could dilute their sweetness.

The quality of dark chocolate also plays a significant role in the flavor profile. Choose high-quality, high-cocoa-content chocolate chips to ensure a rich, satisfying taste. Better chocolate will not only melt better but also create a luscious ganache that complements the cream cheese filling perfectly. If you're a fan of darker or lighter chocolate, feel free to experiment with different types, but keep in mind that altering the chocolate may change the overall flavor balance.

Layering Techniques for Visual Appeal

When assembling the dessert shooters, the layering technique is essential for both visual appeal and flavor distribution. Start with a dollop of the cheesecake filling, followed by a few pieces of the chocolate-dipped strawberries. This way, you'll not only see the beautiful colors and textures but also ensure an even distribution of flavors in each spoonful. For a whimsical touch, you can crumble some of the leftover chocolate on the top layer to create a delightful crunch and extra decoration.

Make sure to use clear glass shooter glasses so that the layers are visible, showcasing the contrast between the creamy cheesecake and the vibrant strawberries. I love using small martini glasses for this, as they add an elegant touch. If you notice that the strawberry chunks are sliding down between layers too much, let the chocolate coating set for a minute before layering to create a more stable base.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delightful dessert shooters:

Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Chocolate sprinkles for garnish

These ingredients will help you create a delicious and impressive dessert!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring your dessert shooters to life:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Assemble the Shooters

Dip each strawberry halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. In glass shooters, layer the cheesecake filling, then a layer of chocolate-dipped strawberries, and repeat until glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the shooters for at least 15 minutes. Before serving, top with chocolate sprinkles for an added crunch.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate covered strawberry dessert shooters!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle some chocolate over the top just before serving!

Make-Ahead Storage

These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert Shooters can be easily prepared in advance, making them a great option for parties or gatherings. You can prepare the cheesecake filling and dip the strawberries in chocolate the day before. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble them the next day. The cheesecake filling will keep its texture well if covered tightly, while the chocolate-covered strawberries will maintain their integrity and flavor.

Once assembled, the shooters are best enjoyed within a couple of days, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware that the longer they sit, the more the strawberries may lose their firmness. If you want to ensure the strawberries stay fresh and appealing, consider assembling them within a few hours of serving, especially if your gathering is later in the day.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that the chocolate isn't melting smoothly, it could be that it's been overheated. When melting chocolate in the microwave, it's important to do so in short intervals and stir between each session. If you notice that the melted chocolate is clumpy, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to help smooth it out, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the flavor.

Some may struggle with getting the layers to stay neat and intact. If your cheesecake filling is too runny, ensure that the heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks. This not only adds volume but also helps the mixture hold together better. If the filling is too thick, you can adjust its consistency by folding in a bit more whipped cream. Remember to mix gently to keep that airy texture intact!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate works just as well if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

→ How long do these shooters last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but they're best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the shooters right before serving.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can use crushed nuts, whipped cream, or even different types of sprinkles for variety.