Sweetening up the tart flavor of fresh berries with simple sugar is a popular flavor combination in many desserts, and it tastes especially appropriate in the summertime. There are a number of different ways to combine tart and sweet flavors, especially if you use a bit of creativity in the kitchen. Here are three favorite fresh berry desserts.

Strawberry Shortcakes [Martha Stewart]
Strawberry shortcake is made with a hearty, crumbly cake topped with sweet strawberries and a hefty dollop of whipped cream, and Martha Stewart’s recipe for individually-sized shortcakes doesn’t stray too far from the original. This dessert calls for just a few simple ingredients and about an hour of your time.

Berries with Mascarpone [MyRecipes]
If you prefer a no-cook dessert that’s equally juicy and decadent, a fancy pudding cup filled with ripe berries and topped with a sweetened-up version of mascarpone cheese makes a beautiful end to any dinner party. Simply combine the mascarpone with sugar, vanilla, and whipping cream to create the fluffy topping.

Blackberry Ice Cream [Coastal Living]
If you’ve never made your own ice cream before, you’ll be surprised about how simple it is to do. Using your own fresh berries cuts down on the additives found in store-bought versions, creating a decadent dessert that you can feel good about eating!

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