Prep Time 15 mins
Rest Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 15 mins
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Summer
Description

These Mascarpone Cream Cups with Berries & Crushed Pistachios are a luxurious yet simple no-bake dessert, perfect for summer. Smooth mascarpone cream is layered with fresh seasonal berries and finished with a sprinkle of crunchy crushed pistachios. Ideal for parties or an elegant after-dinner treat, this chilled dessert is quick to assemble and visually stunning.

Ingredients
    For the Mascarpone Cream:
  • 250 g mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
  • 120 ml heavy cream (cold)
  • 3 tbsp powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
    • For the Berry Layer:
  • 150 g strawberries (hulled and chopped)
  • 100 g blueberries
  • 100 g raspberries
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, if berries are tart)
    • For the Topping:
  • 3 tbsp pistachios (crushed, unsalted and shelled)
  • Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
    Whip the Cream
  1. 1
    In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Do not over-whip.
    2. Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture
  2. 2
    In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated and fluffy. Set aside.
    3. Macerate the Berries (Optional)
  3. 3
    If your berries are tart, toss them with 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and let them sit for 10 minutes. This will enhance their natural sweetness and produce a light syrup.
    4. Assemble the Cups
  4. 4
    Spoon a layer of mascarpone cream into the bottom of serving glasses or dessert cups. Add a layer of mixed berries, followed by another dollop of mascarpone cream. Repeat until cups are filled, finishing with a spoonful of berries on top.
    5. Add Crunch and Chill
  5. 5
    Sprinkle crushed pistachios over the top of each cup. Chill the assembled cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and firm up slightly.
    6. Serve and Garnish
  6. 6
    Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve cold.
Note

Storage: Keep refrigerated. Best enjoyed within 24–36 hours for optimal texture and freshness.

Make Ahead: Can be prepared up to 1 day in advance. Assemble and cover the cups tightly before refrigerating.

Variations:

  • Replace berries with mango cubes or roasted peaches for a tropical version.
  • Add a layer of crushed biscuits or sponge cake for added texture.
  • Drizzle with berry coulis or chocolate sauce for extra flair.
Keywords: easy dessert, no-bake, mascarpone cream, summer recipe, quick
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/mascarpone-cream-cups-with-berries-crushed-pistachios-recipe/