uschetta with Whipped Mascarpone & Basil Recipe
A delightful appetizer featuring juicy balsamic-marinated strawberries atop toasted baguette slices, layered with creamy whipped mascarpone and fresh basil. This Balsamic Strawberry Bruschetta combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors with a crisp texture, perfect for summer gatherings or elegant starters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces (serving 6 people, 2 pieces each) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook (Strawberry Maceration), Baking (Toasting Baguette)
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Balsamic Strawberries
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Whipped Mascarpone
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Bruschetta Base
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil, for brushing
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Optional: extra drizzle of balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, toss strawberries with balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture macerate for 10–15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices and absorb the flavors.
- Make Whipped Mascarpone: In a medium bowl, whip together the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Toast the Baguette Slices: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the baguette slices with olive oil. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until they turn golden and crisp.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread a generous layer of the whipped mascarpone on each toasted baguette slice, then top with the marinated balsamic strawberries.
- Finish & Garnish: Sprinkle the bruschetta with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and drizzle extra balsamic glaze on top if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Macerate the strawberries for at least 10 minutes to enhance the balsamic flavor and soften them slightly.
- The whipped mascarpone can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours, then gently re-whipped before using.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the baguette’s crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Balsamic Strawberry Bruschetta, Mascarpone, Appetizer, Italian, Summer Recipe, Fresh Basil, Baguette, Whipped Cheese