Strawberry Tunnel Cake

1 pkg. (16 oz.) angel food cake mix

6 oz. cream cheese softened

1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk

⅓ C. lemon juice

¼ tsp almond extract, optional

6 drops red food coloring, optional

1 C. sliced fresh strawberries

1 carton (12 oz.) cool whip, thawed, divided

Prepare, bake and cool cake according to package directions.  Slice the top fourth off the cake; set aside.  To make tunnel, use a sharp knife to carefully hollow out bottom of cake, leaving a ½ in. shell.  Tear removed cake into 1 in. cubes.

           

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy.  Beat in milk and lemon juice until smooth.  Stir in extract and food coloring if desired.  Stir in cake cubes and strawberries.  Fold in 1 C. whipped topping.  Spoon into tunnel; replace cake top.  Spread remaining whipped topping over top and sides of cake.  Refrigerate 4 hours or over night. 

From Taste of Home