Balsamic Strawberries with Mascarpone
For something so simple, balsamic strawberries with mascarpone cream is nothing short of extraordinary in terms of flavor. It is a quick dessert that is reminiscent of strawberries bathed in cream, but in this rather Italian rendition, the bathing is all dressed up and taken to sumptuous new heights. An essential summer dessert.
Servings 6 servings
Equipment
- small saucepan
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons sugar (divided)
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese chilled
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream chilled
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ pounds strawberries hulled and thickly sliced or quartered
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Place over medium heat, whisking until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer for a few minutes, or until reduced to about ¼ cup. Transfer the balsamic syrup to a small bowl and cool completely.
- In the meantime, hull and slice the strawberries. Place them in a medium bowl and sprinkle over 2 tablespoons of sugar. Then pour over the balsamic syrup and toss to combine. Let the strawberries stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone, whipping cream, vanilla extract, and remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk the mascarpone cream mixture until thick soft peaks appear.
- Divide the strawberries and balsamic syrup among 6 coupe glasses (or your favorite dessert bowls), reserving some for garnish. Top with the mascarpone cream and garnish with a few reserved strawberry slices.