Decadent Mascarpone Cheesecake with Balsamic Strawberries

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of mascarpone cheesecake paired with balsamic strawberries in this decadent dessert.

Ingredients

1 ½	ground crumbs from purchased almond biscotti (about 6 ounces)
6	tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2	cream cheese, room temperature
8	mascarpone cheese
1 ¾	sugar, plus
2	tablespoons sugar, divided use
2	large eggs
3	quartered hulled strawberries
¼	cup balsamic vinegar

Instructions

• 1. Prepare a 9-inch-diameter springform pan with 2 3/4-inch-high sides by wrapping it tightly with 2 layers of heavy-duty foil.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground almond biscotti crumbs and melted unsalted butter.
  3. Evenly press the mixture onto the bottom of the prepared pan, avoiding the sides. Chill for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese, room temperature mascarpone cheese, and 1 3/4 cups of sugar until smooth.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended.
  7. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
  8. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
  9. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, until the cheesecake is golden and the center moves only slightly when shaken.
  10. Transfer the cake to a rack and let it cool for 1 hour. Chill overnight.
  11. The cake can be prepared 2 days in advance. Keep it covered and chilled. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving.
  12. In a large bowl, mix quartered hulled strawberries, 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Allow it to stand at room temperature until juices form, approximately 30 minutes.
  13. Slice the cake into wedges, spoon the balsamic strawberries alongside, and serve.

Jul 18, 2024