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:
- 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. - 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:
- 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. - 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. - Mix with gelatin:
Pour the hot chocolate mixture into the gelatin mixture and stir well.
Prepare the Cream:
- 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:
- 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. - Fill the mold:
Pour the chocolate mousse mixture into the mold, smoothing the top with a spatula. - Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Serve the Charlotte:
- Unmold:
To serve, gently loosen the edges of the charlotte with a knife, then invert it onto a serving plate. - 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.