BEST MELTING CHOCOLATE FOR DIPPING RECIPES

Steps:

• Remove the chilled candy from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before coating (dipping cold centers can result in cracked coating).
• Place the chocolate chips and shortening in a 2-cup measuring bowl.
• Place the bowl into a larger bowl which contains very warm water (about100-110F) the water should reach only halfway up the 2-cup bowl with the chocolate (DO NOT LET EVEN 1 DROP WATER MIX WITH CHOCOLATE!).
• Stir mixture constantly with a small spatula until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth (this should take about 16-18 minutes, do not rush the melted process).
• If necessary replace the water with more very warm water.
• remove the 2-cup bowl with melted chocolate from the water and continue to stir until all the chocolate is cooled slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
• Set one candy onto a two-pronged fork, then completely dip candy into melted chocolate.
• Gently tap the fork against side of the bowl to remove any excess melted chocolate.
• Place onto baking sheet lined with waxed paper.
• Repeat with remaining candy.
• If the chocolate becomes too thick for dipping, place the bowl containing the chocolate into the bowl with warm water until desired consistancy.
• TIPS ON HOW TO WORK WITH DIPPING CHOCOLATE.
• Avoid all types of moisture when melting the chocolate, any steam or drops of moisture can cause the mixture to :seize" or become very firm, crumbly and grainy, if this occurs it can be corrected by stirring in 1 teaspoon shortening for each 2 ounces of melted chocolate.
• Chocolate can also be melted over low heat in a double boiler.
• Store the chocolate tightly wrapped in a cool dry place, do not refrigerate.

Steps:

• Rinse the strawberries and pat them dry thoroughly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
• Place 3/4 cup of semisweet chocolate and 3/4 cup of white chocolate in two separate small microwave-safe bowls. Microwave each bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until the chocolate is mostly melted, 90 seconds total. Add the remaining 1/4 cup semisweet and 1/4 cup white chocolate chips to their respective bowls; stir until smooth. (Microwave an additional 15 to 30 seconds, if needed).
• To dip the strawberries, stick a toothpick in the stem end of one berry, then dip it into the desired chocolate, swirling to coat. Transfer the dipped berries to the lined sheet tray. Repeat with the remaining berries. 
• Working quickly before the chocolate coating sets, sprinkle the berries with toppings such as sprinkles, chopped pistachios, toasted coconut, or freeze-dried strawberries, as you like. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to help the chocolate set, if needed. If desired, microwave the chocolate that remains in the bowls for 30 seconds, at 50% power, and drizzle over the coated berries.