Ingredients:

* 30 medium to large perfect strawberries
* 11 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
* 2 tablespoons finely grated semisweet or milk chocolate

Preparation:

Cut a thin slice from the stem end of each strawberry, so the berry will stand upright without wobbling. Place the berries, cut side down, on a serving platter. Cut each berry, without cutting through, into 4 wedges. Cut almost to the bottom, but do not cut completely through. Fan wedges slightly apart, taking care not to break; set aside.

Combine cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract in a mixing bowl. Using a hand-held electric mixer at medium speed, beat until light and fluffy. Fold in the grated chocolate. Spoon mixture into a decorating bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe cream cheese mixture into center of each berry. Chill until ready to serve.