Description

These Mini Strawberry Pistachio Mascarpone tartlets are an elegant, no-bake dessert featuring a creamy mascarpone filling blended with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, crunchy pistachios, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for entertaining or a light, refreshing treat, they combine smooth textures and vibrant flavors with a touch of honey drizzle for added sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Mascarpone Filling

1 cup mascarpone cheese (softened)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Toppings and Assembly

1/2 cup chopped strawberries
1/4 cup chopped pistachios (shelled, unsalted)
12 mini tart shells or phyllo cups
Honey for drizzling (optional)
Extra strawberries and pistachios for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the mascarpone mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream using an electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form, meaning when the whisk is lifted, the cream holds a gentle peak.
Fold whipped cream into mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, incorporating it carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy without deflating the cream.
Add lemon zest: Stir the lemon zest into the combined mixture to add a fresh citrus note that brightens the filling.
Assemble the tartlets: Spoon or pipe the mascarpone filling into each mini tart shell or phyllo cup, filling them generously but neatly.
Add toppings and garnish: Top each filled tart with chopped strawberries and pistachios, then drizzle with honey if desired. Garnish with extra strawberries and pistachios for a beautiful finish.
Chill before serving: Place the assembled tartlets in the refrigerator to chill for 20 to 30 minutes. This helps the filling set and enhances the texture before serving.

Notes

The mascarpone filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator; assemble the tartlets just before serving to maintain crisp shells.
For a unique flavor variation, try adding a small amount of rosewater or orange blossom water to the mascarpone mixture for a delicate floral nuance.
If mini tart shells are unavailable, small phyllo cups or even crushed biscuit bases can be substituted.