Chocolate Charlotte

Chocolate Charlotte is a luscious classic dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate mousse with a light, creamy texture. Set inside a ladyfinger-lined mold, this impressive dessert makes an elegant centerpiece for any special occasion or gathering. The blend of chocolate, whipped cream, and a hint of vanilla offers a smooth, decadent flavor that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • ¼ box (about 1 tablespoon) granulated gelatin
  • ¼ cup cold water
  • â…“ cup scalded cream
  • 1½ squares (1½ ounces) Baker’s chocolate
  • 3 tablespoons hot water
  • â…” cup powdered sugar
  • Whip from 3 cups cream (about 2 cups whipped cream)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 ladyfingers (more as needed for lining the mold)

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:

  1. Dissolve the gelatin:
    In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over ¼ cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
  2. Heat the cream:
    In a small saucepan, scald â…“ cup of cream (heat until just before boiling) and pour it over the bloomed gelatin. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.

Melt the Chocolate:

  1. Melt the chocolate:
    In a small saucepan, melt the Baker’s chocolate by placing the pan in a larger saucepan filled with boiling water. Stir constantly until smooth.
  2. Combine with sugar and water:
    Add 3 tablespoons of hot water and half of the powdered sugar to the melted chocolate. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Mix with gelatin:
    Pour the hot chocolate mixture into the gelatin mixture and stir well.

Prepare the Cream:

  1. Whip the cream:
    In a large bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Add the remaining powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and gently fold into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Charlotte:

  1. Prepare the mold:
    Line the bottom and sides of a charlotte mold or round cake pan with ladyfingers. Cut the ladyfingers if necessary to fit the mold.
  2. Fill the mold:
    Pour the chocolate mousse mixture into the mold, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  3. Chill:
    Cover and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Serve the Charlotte:

  1. Unmold:
    To serve, gently loosen the edges of the charlotte with a knife, then invert it onto a serving plate.
  2. Decorate:
    For an elegant touch, garnish with additional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

Notes:

  • Optional fillings: You can customize this dessert by adding chopped nuts, fresh berries, or a layer of fruit preserves between the chocolate mousse and ladyfingers.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Chocolate Charlotte is a stunning dessert perfect for celebrations. The balance of creamy chocolate mousse and delicate ladyfingers will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.