Performance Notes
Don’t over-whip or over-process mascarpone when making frostings, dips or spreads with it, because it will churn into butter and get lumpy. It’s a fresh cheese, so enjoy it fresh, and don’t keep it around for too long. That said, Wisconsin’s mascarpone is generally fresher than imported varieties, so it usually has a longer shelf life.
Pairing Notes
Drinks that like sweets like port, grappa, fruit liqueurs, fruit ales and hard cider all like mascarpone. However, avoid dominantly hopped beers or deeply tannic wines at all costs.
Serve
Tiramisu isn’t tiramisu without this luscious, sweet, spreadable cheese. We love it in many other desserts as well. It’s also really yummy in a baked Italian torta layered with gorgonzola and chopped pine nuts. In the summer, we love to grill fruits and serve them drizzled in honey with a generous dollop or two of mascarpone.