Mascarpone Cream and Berries

After a nice dinner in an Italian restaurant, my mom, daughter & I shared a fabulous dessert - the sweet cream was rich and berries were layered inside. I went on a mission to re-create the dessert and came up with this recipe. The cream is soft -- not stiff or firm, like whipped cream. You can use your favorite fresh fruit or coulis. Layer it in a clear glass goblet or parfait dish; about 2 cups of berries or fruit coulis will be right.

• Ready In: 5 mins
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 1 cup

Ingredients

• 8  ounces mascarpone, chilled
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
• 1⁄2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1  teaspoon vanilla

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone, heavy cream, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla until smoothly blended.
2. Using half of the mascarpone cream, divide it evenly among 4 dishes or goblets. Place a layer of your favorite berries or coulis over, and spoon the remaining mascarpone over. Top with a few more berries or coulis.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or as long as overnight. Serve cold.