As New Year’s Eve approaches it is time to go big or go home with desserts that are as exciting as the occasion. There is something about the combination of rich chocolate and fresh fruit that never fails. Chocolate and fruit desserts offer versatility to satisfy all tastes, whether you are in the mood for a decadent chocolate mousse, a fruit-filled tart or even simple chocolate-dipped fruit skewers.
The beauty of these treats is they are easy to make but indulgent enough for the occasion. Plus the colors of fresh fruit like strawberries, oranges and berries are a visual feast on your dessert table. Whether served as an elegant plated dessert or fun shareable bites, chocolate and fruit desserts bring sophistication while still being playful and approachable.
Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a classic, they never go out of style. To make them, dip fresh, ripe strawberries in a bowl of melted chocolate, dark, milk or white, your choice. The sweetness of the berries pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the chocolate. You can dress them up with toppings: drizzle with white chocolate, sprinkle with crushed pistachios or add a pinch of edible glitter for some sparkle. These are easy to make and perfect for New Year’s Eve.
A chocolate and raspberry tart combines the deepness of chocolate with the freshness and slight tartness of fresh raspberries. The buttery, flaky crust holds a smooth, creamy chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. The raspberries on top or folded into the filling add a pop of fruity goodness. The tart is beautiful, and the dark chocolate and red berries are stunning. Serve as a slice or cut into smaller pieces for New Year’s Eve.
For a light and decadent dessert try chocolate-covered orange slices. Fresh orange segments are dipped into melted chocolate, the sweetness of the citrus and the smoothness of the chocolate is a delightful combination. For added complexity use dark chocolate for a bitter edge or milk chocolate for extra sweetness. You can further dress them up with sea salt, crushed pistachios or a pinch of cinnamon.
Chocolate fruit skewers are so much fun! Skewer bite-sized pieces of fruit like strawberries, pineapples, kiwi, or grapes and dip in melted chocolate. Add an extra layer of flavor and texture by drizzling with more chocolate or sprinkling with crushed nuts, shredded coconut or even granola on top. These are customizable to any palate so you can use your favorite fruits with your favorite type of chocolate (dark, milk or white).
A rich and creamy chocolate mousse layered with fresh mixed berries like blueberries, raspberries and blackberries is a sophisticated dessert that will wow. The mousse made with velvety chocolate and heavy cream is light and airy, the perfect contrast to the fresh and tart berries. Layered in a glass this dessert is beautiful and inviting with the colorful berries against the dark chocolate mousse. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings or even a few extra berries for a fancy touch.
Chocolate banana bites are a simple dessert for a more low key New Year’s Eve party. Slice ripe bananas into bite sized rounds and dip into melted chocolate. Use dark chocolate for a slightly bitter flavor or milk chocolate for sweet. Let them set at room temperature or chill for a more refreshing treat. Add some texture and flavor by sprinkling crushed nuts or sea salt over the chocolate before it sets. If you’re feeling crazy, drizzle with honey or peanut butter on top for a nutty contrast.
These chocolate-covered kiwi pops are gorgeous and delicious. Fresh kiwi slices are dipped in dark or milk chocolate and the natural sweetness and tartness of the fruit shine through. The chocolate hardens and gives a nice crunch and the kiwi inside is still fresh and juicy. If you want to get fancy, roll the coated kiwi slices in crushed almonds, pistachios or shredded coconut.
These are perfect for a party, a creamy cheesecake base topped with chocolate drizzle and a cherry on top. The tang of the cheesecake balances the sweetness of the chocolate and the cherry adds a pop of freshness and color. Easy to eat and serve so great for a more casual New Year’s Eve. Use fresh or preserved cherries, either way your guests will love these and get their perfect bite.