Fresh Berry Tart with Sweet Mascarpone Filling

Fresh berry tart with sweet mascarpone filling is the ultimate summer dessert. With its vibrant red, white, and blue presentation, this delightful treat is perfect for patriotic celebrations like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July. The buttery tart shell holds a creamy mascarpone filling that’s topped with juicy, sweet berries and a glossy apricot glaze. Ready in under an hour, this show-stopping dessert is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a personal treat, this tart never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Berry Tart

• Beautiful and Patriotic: A stunning red, white, and blue dessert perfect for summer holidays.
• Fast and Easy: Only 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Luscious Texture: Creamy mascarpone, flaky tart crust, and juicy berries make every bite heavenly.
• Customizable: Use any berries you love or have on hand.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shell:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 stick (4 oz.) unsalted butter, slightly softened

For the Filling:

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (about 8 ounces)
• 1/3 cup chilled heavy cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Fresh Berry Tart

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the crust: Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add butter and pulse until dough forms a ball.
3. Roll and press: Roll out dough to a 12-inch round. Gently press into a 10-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, making sure to fill the fluted edges. Prick the crust with a fork.
4. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
5. Prepare filling: In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone, heavy cream, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Fill the tart: Evenly spread the mascarpone mixture into the cooled tart shell. Arrange raspberries and blackberries on top.
7. Add the glaze: In a small saucepan, warm apricot jam and Grand Marnier (if using) until it becomes syrupy. Let cool slightly, then use a pastry brush to apply the glaze over the berries.
8. Serve: Slice and serve right away or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the tart shell before baking to prevent shrinkage.
• Make sure the crust is fully cooled before adding filling to maintain texture.
• Use an offset spatula for smooth filling application.
• A pastry brush ensures the glaze is evenly applied over the berries.

Substitutions And Variations

• Fruit Swaps: Try blueberries, sliced strawberries, or kiwi for variation.
• Jam Alternatives: Raspberry or strawberry jam also works beautifully.
• Liqueur-Free: Omit Grand Marnier for a kid-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the tart crust.

Storage Instructions

• Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Best when eaten within the first 24 hours for peak freshness and texture.
• Avoid freezing, as the creamy filling and fresh berries do not hold up well after thawing.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 255 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 34mg
• Sodium: 47mg
• Potassium: 64mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g
• Vitamin A: 470 IU
• Vitamin C: 6.5mg
• Calcium: 46mg
• Iron: 0.9mg

Serving Suggestions

• Add a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Sprinkle with fresh mint leaves for a bright, refreshing finish.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Prosecco or sparkling lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fresh Berry Tart

Can I make the tart shell ahead of time? Absolutely! Bake the tart shell a day in advance and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Is there a good alternative to mascarpone cheese? Yes, cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream creates a similar rich and creamy consistency.

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh? Fresh berries yield the best results, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

What if I don’t have a tart pan? No problem—you can use a pie dish. The appearance might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious and presentable.

How can I keep the tart from becoming soggy? Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling and avoid using overly juicy or wet fruits.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining me in making this Fresh Berry Tart with Sweet Mascarpone Filling! It’s one of my favorite summer recipes—simple to prepare, bursting with vibrant flavors, and always a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a refreshing dessert, this tart is sure to delight. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and remember, great desserts come from a place of love. Happy baking and thank you for being a part of our food-loving community!