01 -
Rinse and pat dry all berries. Hull and slice the strawberries thinly. Reserve a handful of mixed berries for final garnish.
02 -
In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until stiff peaks form.
03 -
In a separate bowl, blend mascarpone cheese with lemon zest if desired. Gently fold in the whipped cream mixture until smooth and airy.
04 -
Spread a layer of mascarpone cream at the base of a clear serving dish. Top with a layer of graham crackers or ladyfingers, then add a mixture of berries. Continue layering mascarpone, cookies, and berries, finishing with a mascarpone layer.
05 -
Arrange the reserved mixed berries on top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure layers are set before serving.