Begin by washing and patting dry all your fresh berries. Slice the strawberries and set aside a handful of berries for garnish.

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form.

In another bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with the optional lemon zest. Gently fold in the whipped cream.

In a serving dish, spread a thin layer of the mascarpone mixture as your base. Then, add a layer of graham crackers or ladyfingers followed by a layer of mixed berries.

Repeat these layers, finishing with the mascarpone mixture on top and garnish with your reserved berries.

Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.