Indulge in a slice of pure bliss with our Lemon Mascarpone Cream Pie, a delightful Italian dessert that combines the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese with the zesty brightness of fresh lemons. This pie is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes, topped with vibrant berries that add a pop of color. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to deliver a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Fresh berries for topping
Instructions
- Remove mascarpone cheese from refrigerator and let it soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure smooth mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated, with no lumps present.
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, being careful to maintain the cream's light and airy texture. Use a folding motion to incorporate without deflating the whipped cream.
- Take the pre-baked pie crust and carefully spread the lemon mascarpone cream evenly across the surface, ensuring a smooth and consistent layer.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish the top of the pie with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for added color and flavor contrast.
- Slice the pie into 8 equal portions and serve chilled. For best presentation, wipe the knife clean between each cut to maintain neat slices.
Tips
- Soften the Mascarpone: For the best texture, allow the mascarpone cheese to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smoother blend with the other ingredients.
- Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: When whipping the heavy cream, keep an eye on it! Whip until stiff peaks form, which usually takes 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture in your pie.
- Gentle Folding: When combining the whipped cream with the mascarpone mixture, use a gentle folding technique. This helps maintain the fluffy texture of the whipped cream, ensuring your pie remains light and creamy.
- Chill for Best Results: For optimal flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight. This allows the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish with Fresh Berries: Before serving, don’t forget to top your pie with fresh berries! They not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delicious contrast to the creamy filling.
- Clean Cuts: For perfectly sliced pieces, wipe your knife clean between cuts. This helps maintain neat edges and a beautiful presentation for each serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg