Creamy Mascarpone Berry Parfait

Coppa Variegata ai Frutti di Bosco (Mascarpone and Mixed Berries Dessert)

If you’re searching for a light yet indulgent dessert to delight your senses, this Coppa Variegata ai Frutti di Bosco is the perfect choice. A creamy mascarpone base, enriched with vanilla and a hint of lemon, meets fresh, sweet-tart berries in a symphony of flavors and textures. This dessert is simple to prepare, making it ideal for both casual meals and special gatherings. It’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the mascarpone mixture:

For the berry topping:

Instructions

1. Prepare the mascarpone mixture:

   • Start by softening the mascarpone in a mixing bowl. To do this, add 2-3 tablespoons of whole milk (adjust based on consistency), and gently mix until smooth and creamy.
   • Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the mascarpone. Stir well to combine and create a uniform, creamy mixture.

2. Whip the cream:

   • In a separate bowl, pour the fresh liquid cream and whip it until it thickens into soft peaks. Be careful not to overwhip, as you want a light, airy texture.

3. Assemble the base:

   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula to combine the two ingredients without deflating the cream. The result should be a fluffy, creamy base perfect for your dessert cups.

4. Chill the mixture:

   • Once the mascarpone mixture is well blended, spoon it into individual serving cups or bowls. Place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, or until set.

5. Prepare the berry topping:

   • While the mascarpone base chills, prepare the mixed berries. In a small bowl, combine the blueberries, red currants, and raspberries.
   • Add the 50g of sugar, then grate the zest of the lemon and squeeze its juice over the berries. Stir gently to combine and allow the fruits to macerate for at least 20 minutes, which will enhance their flavor and soften them slightly.

6. Finish and serve:

   • Once the mascarpone cups are set and chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Spoon the macerated berry mixture over the creamy base, allowing the juice from the fruits to swirl into the mascarpone, creating a beautiful variegated effect.
   • Garnish with a few extra whole berries for added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of creaminess and fruity freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is wonderfully versatile and can be served as a show-stopping finish to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a treat with family, the Coppa Variegata ai Frutti di Bosco will impress with its delicate flavors and elegant presentation. For a twist, feel free to substitute the mixed berries with other seasonal fruits or a combination of your favorites.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This dessert offers a delightful balance of sweetness from the berries and a rich, creamy texture from the mascarpone, making it a perfect treat to indulge in without feeling overly heavy. It’s a refreshing, seasonal dessert that can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to its simple ingredients and flexible preparation.