09 Jun Strawberry, Mascarpone and Balsamic Cracker Bites

Combining sweet strawberries and tangy mascarpone cheese on top of a Breton cracker? You’ll be overjoyed with the results!

By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Breton Crackers. I was not compensated for my time.

Whether prepping dessert for a special occasion or an impromptu get-together, my fall back is always fresh strawberries, mascarpone cheese, and brown sugar.  No measurements. No recipe. No instructions. Dip strawberry into mascarpone. Roll in brown sugar. Eat. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

Due to the addictive nature of this sweet treat, I’m left with a million of the strawberry leaves strewn all over the place. Those leaves are actually called the calyx. Some people call them hulls, tops, caps, or hats.  But the scientific name if calyx. These calyces seem to morph and spread to a ridiculous degree–and as a result,  I’m always picking them off the floor so nobody slips and falls. Those calyces are pretty slippery.  And I’ll be honest. I was tired of cleaning them up.

If I was going to remove the calyx of the strawberries but still wanted to maintain the flavors, ease and ingredient combination, a foundation of sorts was going to be necessary.  

My foundation of choice was the Breton Artisanal Sweet Potato and Grains cracker. 

The tender crisp texture of the Breton Artisanal Sweet Potato & Grains cracker held up perfectly to the strawberry mixture and the contrast of the berries/cheese/balsamic to the quinoa, rye and sweet potato pieces was exceptional. Surprisingly exceptional, I must admit.  Breton Original crackers are in my pantry at all times, but the Artisanal Sweet Potato & Grains cracker were a new item for me. 

The bottom line? Breton Crackers make each bite better. Not to mention, it’s a much cleaner bite, too. 

Strawberry, Mascarpone and Balsamic Cracker Bites

Makes 16 servings

1¼ cup chopped strawberries

4 teaspoons light brown sugar

4 ounces mascarpone cheese or plain Greek-style yogurt

16 Breton Artisanal Sweet Potato and Ancient Grains Crackers or Original Crackers

3 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic syrup

In a medium bowl, mix strawberries and brown sugar together. Mash with a fork and let sit for 5 minutes.

Spread mascarpone cheese or yogurt onto each cracker. Spoon strawberry mixture on top. Place each cracker on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve immediately.