Simple Chocolate Fruit Dip
Simple Chocolate Fruit Dip is a quick and creamy dessert dip made with chocolate, cream cheese, and a few pantry staples. Perfect for pairing with fruit, cookies, or pretzels, it’s a rich and crowd-pleasing treat ready in minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10–30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of salt or cinnamon for extra flavor
Instructions
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
- Add the chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Slowly mix in the melted chocolate mixture and continue beating until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Chill for 15–20 minutes for a firmer dip, or serve immediately at room temperature.
- Optional: Garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder, sea salt, or chocolate shavings.
- Serve with fresh fruit, pretzels, marshmallows, or cookies.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate for a deeper, more intense flavor.
- Let dip come to room temperature before serving if made ahead.
- Add peanut butter, espresso powder, or mint extract for flavor variations.
- Pairs well with strawberries, apples, bananas, and grapes.
- Use vegan alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dip takes just minutes to make and requires only a few ingredients. It’s smooth, chocolatey, and versatile—perfect for dipping strawberries, bananas, apples, or even pretzels. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your preferences with various add-ins or toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
heavy cream
cream cheese, softened
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
optional: pinch of salt or cinnamon for extra flavor
Directions
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
- Add chocolate chips and stir until smooth and melted. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, and beat until well combined.
- Slowly mix in the melted chocolate mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and chill for 15–20 minutes, or serve immediately at room temperature.
- Garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.
- Serve with fresh fruit, pretzels, marshmallows, or cookies.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time (optional): 15–20 minutes
Total time: 10–30 minutes
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Version: Use bittersweet or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Nutty Dip: Add 1–2 tablespoons of peanut butter or hazelnut spread.
- Spiced Dip: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or espresso powder for a unique twist.
- Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing finish.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and vegan chocolate chips.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving again, or warm gently in the microwave in 10-second intervals.
Do not freeze, as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let it soften before serving.
What fruits go best with chocolate dip?
Strawberries, bananas, apple slices, grapes, pineapple, and raspberries are all great choices.
Can I make this dip without cream cheese?
Yes, omit the cream cheese and increase the amount of heavy cream for a thinner, fondue-style dip.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free dippers if needed.
Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Absolutely. The result will be sweeter and lighter in flavor—great for kids or those who prefer mild chocolate.
How do I make it thicker?
Add more cream cheese or reduce the amount of cream. You can also chill it longer for a firmer texture.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes, it’s delicious warm. Just keep it gently heated in a fondue pot or rewarm before serving.
What else can I dip besides fruit?
Try pretzels, graham crackers, cookies, marshmallows, or pound cake cubes.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, flavored varieties like chocolate or vanilla cream cheese can add extra richness and fun twists.
Will this dip harden in the fridge?
It will firm up slightly. Let it sit at room temperature or microwave briefly to soften before serving.
Conclusion
Simple Chocolate Fruit Dip is a fast, foolproof way to elevate your snack or dessert game. With its smooth texture and rich chocolate flavor, it’s a hit at parties or cozy nights in. Customizable, make-ahead friendly, and irresistibly dippable—this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.