Strawberries are the most famous berries in the world. Their vibrant color livens up any dish and their shape is similar to heart. This is why it is often associated to Valentines. Here are some treats you can prepare using strawberries. You can give it as gifts or you can simply have it for dessert. Enjoy!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Ingredients:

1 ounce semisweet chocolate

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

Ingredients:

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