Sumptuous Strawberries

1 1/2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon corn syrup

1 tablespoon rum, optional

1 pint strawberries

In a double boiler over medium low fire, combine butter, chocolate, corn syrup and rum. Whisk until all the ingredients melt. Remove from heat.

Dip strawberries into the chocolate mixture. Place the dipped strawberries on wax paper and let them cool. Refrigerate until serving.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Strawberries

32 fresh whole strawberries, large

11 to 12 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

2 tablespoons semisweet or milk chocolate, grated

To let the berries stand upright on a flattened end, cut a thin part of the stem. Place the berries on a serving platter, with the cut side down. Carefully cut the strawberries into 4 wedges to allow it to fan slightly. Do not cut through the bottom.

In bowl, whisk together confectioners

sugar, almond extract and cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. Fold in the grated chocolate. Place the filling in a pastry bag with a large open star tip. Pipe the cream into the strawberries. Sprinkle more grated chocolate if desired. Cover and refrigerate until serving.

Photo Courtesy Of:  Manchester-Monkey Tweet