Mini Mascarpone Cheesecakes with Strawberry Balsamic Topping

INGREDIENTS

1 cup

Graham Cracker crumbs (, gluten-free or regular (I used Kinnikinnck S’moreables, ground in a blender to make crumbs))

1 tbsp

plus ¼ cup and 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar

4 tbsp

Unsalted Butter (, melted)

8- ounce package of Mascarpone Cheese (, room temperature)

8- ounce package Cream Cheese (, room temperature)

Eggs (, room temperature)

1/2 tsp

Vanilla Extract

Zest of ½ Lemon

Supplies: 12 4-ounce jelly jars

1 tbsp

plus 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar

2 tbsp

Balsamic Vinegar

2 cups

smaller-sized Strawberries (, hulled and quartered lengthwise)

Generous pinch each Kosher Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper

Optional garnish: mini spearmint leaves