Fresh Berries with Balsamic Drizzle and Almond Cream

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 pound sliced or quartered strawberries
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 3 tablespoons lightly toasted sliced almonds

Directions

Place the balsamic vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Cook until reduced to about half the original volume and vinegar has a syrupy consistency, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside to cool to room temperature.

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone, sugar, and almond extract and whisk until very smooth and sugar has dissolved.

When ready to serve the dessert, divide the strawberries, raspberries and blackberries evenly between 4 or 6 small dessert coupes. Place a generous dollop of the cream mixture over the top of the fruit, then drizzle with a teaspoon or two of the reduced balsamic vinegar. Garnish with almonds and serve immediately.