Irresistible Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars : The Perfect Summer Treat

Posted on December 30, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

Looking for a treat that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent? These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars are the ultimate combination of juicy strawberries, creamy coconut, and rich dark chocolate—all layered into a no-bake, plant-based dessert that’s perfect for any season. But let’s be honest—these bars truly shine as one of the best summer chocolate recipes out there.

Naturally sweetened and packed with whole ingredients, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking for quick desserts (vegan) that don’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a BBQ, or a midday snack, these healthy chocolate coconut treats check all the boxes: satisfying, portable, and stunning to serve.

If you’re into fruity, chocolatey, or coconut-rich recipes, you’ll also enjoy this Strawberry Cloud Cake or the rich indulgence of Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles.

What Are Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars?

At their core, chocolate covered strawberry bars are inspired by the classic chocolate-dipped strawberry—but made into a satisfying layered dessert. These bars typically include a base made from coconut and dates, a creamy strawberry layer, and a rich dark chocolate topping. They’re a cross between a candy bar and a fruit-based slice, combining decadent flavor with wholesome ingredients.

Think of it as a fruity spin on paleo chocolate bites or healthy date snacks, elevated with the fresh burst of strawberries and indulgent layers.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Naturally Sweet & Healthy)

You’ll love how short and clean this ingredient list is. Everything is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and minimally processed, yet full of flavor and texture.

For the Base:

  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup pitted medjool dates (soft and sticky)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • ⅓ cup coconut butter (melted)

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips or bar (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • Optional: shaved dark chocolate or flaky salt for garnish

This recipe is perfect for those who love healthy coconut desserts or want to explore strawberry coconut dessert ideas that feel indulgent but are nourishing.

Kitchen Equipment Required

You don’t need anything fancy to whip up these strawberry coconut bars. Just a few kitchen staples:

  • Food processor or high-speed blender
  • Small saucepan (for melting chocolate)
  • 8×8″ square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula or offset knife
  • Freezer-safe container (for storing)

These tools are also handy when making other layered treats like No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Balls or Fruit Dip for summer.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a food processor, combine the dates, shredded coconut, and salt. Blend until sticky and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into a parchment-lined baking pan to form an even base. Place in the freezer to set while preparing the next layer.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Coconut Filling
Blend strawberries and maple syrup in a clean food processor until smooth. Add melted coconut butter and blend again until creamy. Pour this mixture over the base and spread evenly. Return to freezer for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt dark chocolate and coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour over the frozen strawberry layer and quickly spread before it firms up. Sprinkle with shaved dark chocolate or flaky salt for extra flair.

Step 4: Set and Slice
Freeze the bars for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate layer is solid. Remove from pan, slice into squares or bars, and serve chilled.

These bars are no-bake, stress-free, and ready to devour within a couple of hours—making them one of the best quick desserts vegan foodies will adore.

Why These Bars Are the Best Quick Desserts (Vegan + No Bake)

What sets these bars apart is their:

  • Speed: From start to finish, you can prep and chill them in under 2 hours.
  • No oven required: Perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to bake.
  • Wholesome ingredients: Naturally sweet, gluten-free, and plant-based.
  • Versatility: Perfect for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast with a cup of Lavender Lemonade.

If you’re looking for more low-effort desserts, try Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups or Brown Sugar Overnight Oats for a sweet, wholesome fix.

The Role of Shaved Dark Chocolate in Flavor and Texture

Topping these bars with shaved dark chocolate not only adds a gourmet touch but also enhances the bittersweet contrast with the fruity center. You can use a microplane or sharp knife to create chocolate curls or shavings.

This finishing touch mimics the elegance of a classic chocolate-dipped strawberry and makes your bars look as luxurious as they taste. For a holiday twist, mix in crushed peppermint or edible glitter to turn them into Christmas dessert bars.

Strawberry Coconut Bars vs. Strawberry Coconut Dessert – What’s the Difference?

Strawberry coconut dessert is a broad term that can refer to cakes, mousses, or parfaits. But strawberry coconut bars like these are compact, layered, and portable.

Their square shape makes them ideal for parties, road trips, or freezer snacking, unlike spoonable coconut desserts which require serving dishes. If you love bite-sized desserts, you might also enjoy these Apple Fritter Donuts or Mini Halloween Pizzas.

Paleo Chocolate Bites & Healthy Date Snacks – Inspired Variations

Want to adapt this recipe to your dietary goals or pantry ingredients? Try these easy swaps:

  • Turn them into paleo chocolate bites by using 100% dark chocolate and skipping maple syrup.
  • Make healthy date snacks by rolling the base into balls and dipping in chocolate.
  • Add chia seeds or flax for a fiber and omega-3 boost.
  • Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.

Looking for more variations? The Pumpkin Protein Muffins are a fantastic portable snack that blends protein and sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars

One of the best things about these bars is how freezer-friendly they are.

To Store:
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To Freeze:
Wrap each bar individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before enjoying.

These are a perfect make-ahead dessert like Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches, ideal for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Summer Chocolate Recipes

Serve these bars straight from the fridge or freezer for a cool, refreshing bite. They’re perfect on:

  • A brunch board with berries and granola
  • As a poolside snack with a smoothie
  • On a dessert table next to Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
  • In a lunchbox as a healthy sweet treat

Their pretty pink layer and glossy chocolate topping make them a natural fit for summer chocolate recipes, birthdays, or even baby showers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Healthy Coconut Desserts

  • Using dry dates: Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes if they’re hard.
  • Skipping coconut butter: It helps the filling firm up—don’t substitute with coconut oil.
  • Not freezing long enough: The layers need to be firm for clean slicing.
  • Overheating chocolate: Melt it slowly to avoid burning or seizing.

For another coconut-rich idea that works wonderfully in summer, try Coconut Flatbread or Coconut Pumpkin Oatmeal.

Healthy Chocolate Coconut Treats – Nutrition and Swaps

These bars are:

  • Dairy-free and vegan
  • Refined sugar-free
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Full of fiber and healthy fats

Want to reduce the fat content? Use light coconut butter or substitute part of it with pureed silken tofu or thick cashew cream. You can also boost protein by adding 1–2 tablespoons of vegan protein powder to the base layer.

Looking for more nutrient-dense bites? These Snickerdoodle Protein Bites are a quick, satisfying option.

FAQs: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid.

Do I need to use coconut butter?
Yes—it’s what firms up the strawberry layer. Coconut oil alone won’t set the same.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely—this recipe is naturally nut-free.

Can I make these into round bites?
Yes! Roll the layers into balls, freeze, then dip in melted chocolate for truffle-style treats.

How long do they last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days, but they’re usually gone well before that!

Conclusion and Call to Action

These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars are more than just a pretty treat—they’re rich, healthy, vegan, and easy to make. With a chewy coconut-date base, creamy berry filling, and decadent chocolate topping, they hit all the right notes.

If you’re craving a refreshing summer treat, these bars belong in your freezer. Share this recipe with friends, pin it for later, and subscribe to the blog for more wholesome, indulgent dessert ideas.

Try it once, and you’ll want to make it every week.

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Irresistible Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars – The Perfect Summer Treat


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bars are a refreshing, no-bake vegan dessert made with a chewy coconut-date base, a creamy strawberry coconut layer, and a rich dark chocolate topping. Naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and perfect for summer treats, picnics, or healthy snacking.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Layer:

  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
  • Pinch of salt

Strawberry Layer:

  • 1½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • ⅓ cup coconut butter, melted

Chocolate Topping:

  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Optional:

  • Shaved dark chocolate or flaky salt for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the base: Blend dates, shredded coconut, and salt in a food processor until sticky. Press firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Freeze while preparing next layer.
  2. Prepare strawberry layer: Blend strawberries and maple syrup until smooth. Add melted coconut butter and blend until creamy.
  3. Layer: Pour strawberry mixture over the base and spread evenly. Freeze for at least 1 hour until firm.
  4. Melt chocolate: Gently melt dark chocolate and coconut oil over low heat until smooth.
  5. Top: Pour chocolate over the frozen strawberry layer and spread quickly. Sprinkle garnish if using.
  6. Set: Freeze for 30 minutes or until chocolate is firm.
  7. Slice & serve: Remove from pan, slice into bars or squares, and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Dates too dry? Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before blending.
  • Do not replace coconut butter: It’s essential for setting the strawberry layer.
  • Clean slices: Use a warm knife and wipe between cuts.
  • Storage: Keep chilled for best texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: chocolate covered strawberry bars, vegan no bake dessert, strawberry coconut bars, healthy chocolate dessert, summer chocolate recipes

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