I have always loved cheesecake but feel a bit sheepish to admit I’ve never made a sweet one until now. A favorite Boulder Locavore reader recipe, especially for fall and winter entertaining, is Savory Blue Cheesecake {appetizer}. You’d think a sweet confection of the cheesecake variety might have preceded that but I suppose ‘better late than never’ applies here. Or perhaps’ good things are worth the wait’!
I have a bit of a thing for desserts in jars and small desserts. Partially because at this time of the summer a mere bite of dessert can seem too much with the heat, as well as I think they are cute. If a dessert is small you can always eat more than one but often a few delicious bites is all someone wants.
The first idea that popped to mind stemmed from a very unusual dessert my husband made for my birthday celebration years ago. Macerated strawberries mixed with balsamic vinegar and black pepper atop mascarpone cheese. I’m imagining some wrinkled noses and secret thoughts wondering if he really likes me very much from the sound of that dessert. It was fantastic and something I’ve clearly never forgotten. It bore a wonderful combination of sweet fruit offset by a tang, and spiced by the pepper, complimented by the sweet, creamy marscapone cheese. The flavors blend well allowing each ingredient to play its part without stealing the show.
I was so glad my fixation held as it made a perfect topping for the mini Mascarpone Cheesecakes, made in 4 ounce jelly jars. I simply love the flavor combination in this dessert; it is a surprise to the palate and one I think you’ll agree is deliciously unforgettable. Another fun thing about the jelly jars is they become portable with a lid. The cheesecakes may be made the day prior and topped with the strawberry mixture just before serving. I’ll confess we enjoyed this equally for breakfast as for dessert! I hope you’ll love it as much as I do.
holly waterfall says
Strawberries and balsamic are such a good combo! And this looks so summery. Perfect for a BBQ!
Shaina says
Those adorable little mason jars are the perfect vessel for such a pretty dessert!
Carla says
I love balsamic vinegar but never tried it was strawberries (yet). I see these in my future!
Tara says
This is my type of cheesecake, I love just a little portion and the fresh berries are perfect!!
Lisa @ Wine & Glue says
This looks delicious! Pinned!
Cate @ Chez CateyLou says
Today was my first cheesecake too! I love love love your recipe – these are so cute and sound amazing! What a fun idea for a summer party dessert. Pinning this! Happy Cheesecake Day!
Toni Dash says
Oh Cate I’m so glad I’m not the only person who has never made cheesecake! After making it I’m not sure why I waited so long but admittedly do love this mini size; it’s just right!
Heather @ French Press says
these are just PERFECT a mall bit of dessert is usually enough but if there’s more I eat it – mini jars are the answer
Lisa @ Garnish with Lemon says
This flavor combination is fabulous! Now that you have started making cheesecake, I can’t wait to see what else you come up with!
Julie says
These are lovely! That strawberry balsamic topping makes it the perfect dessert for a spring or early summer dinner party!
sam says
Gorgeous photos! I’d like to get my hands on 1 (or 4) of these!
Roxana | Roxana's Home Baking says
I love strawberry and balsamic but have never tried with black pepper. Of course you got me all curious and can not wait to try it!
Your single serve cheesecake turned out so pretty! Love that you baked them in mini jelly jars. Such a cute idea!
Thanks for making your first sweet cheesecake to celebrate cheesecake day with us, Toni!
Christine at Cook the Story says
I love that they’re portion controlled!
Aimee @ ShugarySweets says
Those strawberries are gorgeous. And food in jars is my favorite 🙂
Toni Dash says
Me too Aimee!
Katrina @ In Katrina's Kitchen says
These are gorgeous! So so pretty! I can only imagine how delicious they must be.
Toni Dash says
Thank you Katrina! I absolutely love your cheesecake for National Cheesecake Day. It is so unexpected, fabulous and fun. Just like you!
Christie - Food Done Light says
These look amazing. I love mini desserts. They always looks so cute and you can indulge without over doing it.
Toni Dash says
I agree Christie. Also it’s really the first bite that is the best. Having 4-6 more bites is about right and you leave happy rather than overstuffed!
Liz says
Oh, these look heavenly, Toni! If I knew these were in your kitchen, I would have jumped in the car and made that drive north to visit you 🙂
Toni Dash says
I would have LOVED to see you while you were here Lizzy! Sadly I spent 4 full days at an Aquatics Center for the end of summer swim team. It did not seem a fun invitation for a friend visiting the area! We could have had coffee at the concessions stand!
Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness says
I have actually never had Mascarpone before!! But, I have been dying to try it…and anything cheesecake is a win! Pinned!
Toni Dash says
It’s really delicious Taylor. Once you try it I’m sure you’ll think of all sorts of ways to use it!