Summer Surprise Dessert
Dive into summer bliss with this no-bake **Summer Surprise Dessert**, a vibrant medley of fresh flavors and creamy decadence that's perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, fluffy mascarpone and whipped cream filling, and layers of juicy mixed berries, this dessert strikes the ideal balance between refreshing and indulgent. A zesty pop of lemon curd adds a tangy twist, while a hint of aromatic vanilla and lemon zest elevate the creamy layers. Ready in just 30 minutes and beautifully chilled for a cool treat, this visually stunning dessert is as easy to assemble as it is to devour. Garnished with sprigs of fresh mint, it's a show-stopping centerpiece that celebrates the best of summer. Perfect for barbecues, al fresco evenings, or everyday indulgences, this dessert will surprise and delight your taste buds!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 10 sheets graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
- 1 cup lemon curd
- 5 leaves mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Start by making the crust. Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
Melt the unsalted butter and mix it with the graham cracker crumbs and the granulated sugar until evenly combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch round tart pan or springform pan to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until light and fluffy, forming soft peaks.
Spread a third of the mascarpone mixture over the chilled crust, creating an even layer.
Scatter about 1/3 of the mixed berries on top of the mascarpone layer.
Repeat the layers two more times: mascarpone mixture, then berries. Finish with the berries on top in an artistic arrangement if desired.
Use a spoon to dollop lemon curd on top of the berries in small clusters for bursts of flavor.
Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to set and the flavors to meld together.
Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
728 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 50.6 g | 65% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.9 g | 145% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 156 mg | 52% | |
| Sodium | 140 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.4 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 49.2 g | ||
| Protein | 5.2 g | 10% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 80 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 145 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
