Vanilla Bean and Mascarpone Crostini

Slofoodgroup Team June 17, 2019

Mascarpone Crostini with Rosemary, Berries and Vanilla Bean Powder
 
While there are a time and place for sugar-laden, buttery-rich cookies, cakes and bars, sometimes the occasion calls for a dessert that is a bit more subtle. The best way to achieve this is by incorporating a few carefully selected savory ingredients into the mix.
 
These crostini are a perfect example of a treat that is firmly in the “dessert” category but will not overwhelm with excessive sweetness. Fruity olive oil, rosemary, and mascarpone cheese are all perfect examples of ingredients that are often used in savory dishes, but translate beautifully to desserts too.
 
In keeping with the lighter theme, we dusted the mascarpone with vanilla bean powder, which lends sweetness and a most heavenly flavor to this mild cheese, without altering the texture. And we finished with a sprinkle of fresh berries and a drizzle of honey, resulting in a colorful, light and sophisticated dessert that is definitely not the “same-old”.
 

Mascarpone Crostini with Rosemary, Berries and Vanilla Bean Powder

Ingredients

4 slices of your favorite bread (we used a sourdough boule)
Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
A sprig of fresh rosemary, plus extra for garnish
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
Ground vanilla bean powder
Mixed fresh berries
Honey, for drizzling

Procedure

Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees; line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Brush both sides of the bread with the olive oil and bake for 10 – 12 minutes, or till light golden brown. When cool enough to handle, but still warm, rub each slice with the rosemary sprig. Let cool to room temperature. 

Divide the mascarpone evenly between the toasts and spread to coat. Sprinkle with the vanilla bean powder and top with the berries. Drizzle with honey and add a rosemary sprig for garnish. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Position one or two crostini on a dessert plate and serve to each of your guests individually, line them on a platter to serve family or buffet-style, or place on a tray to pass along with a cocktail napkin.  Pair with a chilled, sparkling Gamay Rosé or Champagne with this dish. 

The ground vanilla beans, sprinkled on the mascarpone is such a gorgeous contrast visually, but the fine powder also brings all the ingredients together making this dish an unmistakably rustic dessert. Find your ground vanilla beans here.