Cheesecake-Stuffed Strawberries

Makes 24

• 24 large strawberries, washed
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla or almond extract
• melted semi-sweet chocolate for dipping
• Assorted decorations such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, graham cracker crumbs, coconut flakes

Combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla or almond extract in a small bowl.
Using a pairing knife, score the strawberries twice (once horizontally and once vertically), from the strawberry's tip to the stem, taking care not to cut through the stem. Core out some of the middle of the strawberry, if desired. Using a spoon, press the cheesecake mixture into the hole. You can also place the filling in a pastry bag fitted with a star tip and pipe it into the strawberry.
Once filled with cheesecake, dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate. Then, dip the strawberries in the decorations. Let set on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Can be made up to a day in advance.