Strawberry Chocolate Clusters Recipe – Easy Frozen Dessert Bites

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Strawberry Chocolate Clusters Recipe – Easy Frozen Dessert Bites

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, refreshing dessert that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Well, look no further! These Strawberry Chocolate Clusters are seriously the easiest, most delightful little bites, and they’re perfect for beating the summer heat. I first made these when my niece came to visit, and they were a HUGE hit – we devoured them in one sitting! Let’s get into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These strawberry chocolate clusters are a dream come true for a few reasons. They require minimal effort – seriously, just a few simple steps. They’re wonderfully refreshing, thanks to the frozen strawberries and creamy hung curd. And let’s be honest, who can resist the combination of sweet strawberries and rich chocolate? Plus, they’re easily adaptable to suit your preferences – more on that later!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delightful treats:

• 1 ½ cups strawberries (about 200g)
• 1 cup plain hung curd (about 240g)
• 1 tbsp honey (about 15ml)
• 1 cup chocolate (about 170g)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (about 30ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Strawberries: Choosing the Best Variety

Any strawberries will work, but I find that smaller, sweeter varieties like Chandleri or Albion give the best flavour. Look for bright red berries that are firm and fragrant. About 200g is perfect, but feel free to adjust based on how strawberry-crazy you are!

Hung Curd: Understanding Its Role & Substitutions

Hung curd (also known as Greek yogurt) is key here – it provides a lovely tang and creamy texture. To make your own, simply tie yogurt in a muslin cloth and let the whey drain for a few hours. If you can’t find hung curd, you can use thick Greek yogurt, but make sure it’s very thick to prevent icy clusters.

Honey: Regional Honey Varieties & Flavor Profiles

I love using a good quality wildflower honey for a subtle floral note. Different regions in India offer amazing honey varieties – try Kashmiri honey for a delicate flavour or a darker, more robust honey from the Sundarbans. About 15ml is perfect for a gentle sweetness.

Chocolate: Types of Chocolate for Coating

I usually go for dark chocolate (around 50-70% cacao) for a richer flavour, but milk chocolate works beautifully too! Feel free to experiment. About 170g should be enough for a generous coating.

Coconut Oil: Benefits & Alternatives

Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a lovely sheen. You can substitute it with another neutral oil like sunflower oil, but coconut oil adds a subtle flavour that complements the strawberries. 30ml is all you need.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, hung curd, and honey. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely combined.
2. Now, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and gently form little clusters onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You should get around 10 clusters.
3. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the clusters are solid. Patience is key here!
4. While the clusters are freezing, let’s melt the chocolate. Place the chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 15-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until everything is smooth and glossy.
5. Take the frozen clusters out of the freezer. One by one, dip each cluster into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to coat it evenly.
6. Place the chocolate-covered clusters back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the freezer for another 5 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. And that’s it! Serve chilled and enjoy these little bites of heaven.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the parchment paper – it makes cleanup a breeze!
• Make sure the strawberries are well-drained after chopping to prevent icy clusters.
• If the chocolate gets too thick, add a tiny bit more coconut oil.

Variations

This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation! Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Strawberry Chocolate Clusters

Simply swap the hung curd for a plant-based yogurt (coconut or soy work well) and use vegan chocolate. My friend Priya swears by this version!

Gluten-Free Strawberry Chocolate Clusters

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the label on your chocolate to ensure it’s certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.

Spice Level Variation (Optional – Chili Infused Chocolate)

For a little kick, add a pinch of chili powder to the melted chocolate. It’s surprisingly delicious! My brother loves this one.

Festival Adaptations (Summer Dessert Special)

These are perfect for summer festivals! You can even add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are best served chilled. They’re perfect as a light dessert after a meal, a refreshing snack on a hot day, or even a sweet treat with your evening chai.

Storage Instructions

Store the strawberry chocolate clusters in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. They’re best enjoyed within a week for optimal flavour and texture.

FAQs

What is the best way to prevent the chocolate from cracking?

Make sure the clusters are thoroughly frozen before dipping them in chocolate. Also, avoid drastic temperature changes.

Can I use a different type of yogurt instead of hung curd?

You can, but it needs to be very thick. Greek yogurt is the best substitute, but drain off any excess liquid first.

How long can I store these strawberry chocolate clusters?

They’re best enjoyed within a month, but they’ll stay good for longer if stored properly in an airtight container in the freezer.

Can I add nuts or other toppings to these clusters?

Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Is it possible to make these without a freezer?

Not really, the freezer is essential for creating the cluster shape and keeping them refreshing. You could try making a strawberry chocolate bark instead!