Summer Berry Parfait with Lemon Curd and Mascarpone Cream
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When berries are at their juiciest and most irresistible, I love turning them into simple, elegant desserts that don’t require baking or fuss. This parfait layers sweet summer berries with lemony mascarpone cream and a swirl of lemon curd for a dessert that’s light, luscious, and just a little indulgent.
It’s one of those treats that feels fancy but takes less than 15 minutes to put together. The lemon curd adds a tart surprise that plays beautifully with the creamy mascarpone and fresh fruit.
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍋 Tangy lemon curd balances rich mascarpone
🍓 Uses fresh seasonal berries in a no-bake format
🥄 Ready in 15 minutes—great for last-minute guests
🌱 Can be made ahead for parties or brunch
🧁 Naturally gluten-free with optional crunchy topping
📌 Quick Reference Section
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free optional
Key Ingredients at a Glance:
Mixed berries, lemon curd, mascarpone, whipped cream, vanilla
📌 Ingredients List
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
1 cup mascarpone cheese
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: crushed vanilla wafers or granola for topping
Optional Add-ins & Swaps:
Swap mascarpone for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Use honey instead of powdered sugar
Add a splash of limoncello for grown-up flair
📌 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Make the Mascarpone Cream
In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat mascarpone with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream. - Layer the Parfaits
In small glasses or jars, layer mascarpone cream, a spoonful of lemon curd, and a handful of mixed berries. Repeat to fill the glass. - Top and Chill
Add a final spoon of cream or curd on top and sprinkle with optional crushed cookies or granola. Chill until ready to serve.
📌 Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve after brunch, or as a make-ahead dinner dessert
Pair with mint tea or sparkling water with lemon
Add edible flowers for a garden-party presentation
📌 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge: Best enjoyed within 1–2 days
Make-Ahead: Assemble and chill up to 1 day ahead
Freezing: Not recommended—cream and berries lose texture
📌 Final Thoughts
These berry parfaits are layered sunshine—fresh, tangy, and perfectly sweet. 🍓 Tag your dessert creations with #SouthernSoilSunshine and let us know what berry combo you picked!
Love lemony sweets? Don’t miss our Lemon Thyme Olive Oil Cake or Mint & Honey Iced Tea!
