Coffee Charlotte

Coffee Charlotte Recipe from Romania - Whipped Cream, Gelatine, Coffee, Milk, and Sour Cherry

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Coffee Charlotte is a delicious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee with the lightness of whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a sweet treat to enjoy after a meal.

History

The Coffee Charlotte recipe has its origins in French cuisine, where charlottes are typically made with ladyfingers or sponge cake. The addition of coffee to the traditional recipe adds a unique and flavorful twist to this classic dessert.

Ingredients

2 lb / 1 kg whipped cream
11 tbsp gelatine
4 cups cold black coffee
sugar to taste
1 cup milk
sour cherry preserves (optional)

How to prepare

Boil the black coffee and milk together.
Add the gelatine and stir until dissolved.
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve and let it cool.
Once it is lukewarm, combine it with the whipped cream and confectioner's sugar to taste.
Mix well and pour the mixture into cups or glasses. Refrigerate it.
When serving, you can garnish with whipped cream or sour cherry preserves.

Variations

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat whipped cream or substitute some of the whipped cream with Greek yogurt.
You can also add a splash of coffee liqueur for an extra kick of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to dissolve the gelatine completely in the hot coffee and milk mixture to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be sure to strain the mixture to remove any lumps or clumps before combining it with the whipped cream.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to taste, depending on how sweet you prefer your dessert to be.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee Charlotte can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of sour cherry preserves for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Coffee Charlotte is to properly dissolve the gelatine and combine it with the whipped cream to create a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have gelatine on hand, you can use agar agar as a vegetarian alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Coffee Charlotte can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It is best enjoyed within a day or two of making.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Coffee Charlotte in elegant glass cups or bowls for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Coffee Charlotte pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or espresso for a complete coffee-flavored experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Coffee Charlotte in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, allow the dessert to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Coffee Charlotte contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Coffee Charlotte contains approximately 15g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Coffee Charlotte contains approximately 20g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Coffee Charlotte contains approximately 5g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Coffee Charlotte is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Coffee Charlotte contains dairy (whipped cream, milk) and gelatine, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Coffee Charlotte is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Coffee Charlotte is a decadent and creamy dessert that is perfect for coffee lovers. With its rich coffee flavor and light whipped cream, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy this delicious treat as a special indulgence or as the perfect ending to a meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Emily. As soon as I walked through the door, I could smell the rich aroma of coffee wafting through the air. Emily greeted me with a smile and led me to the kitchen where a delicious looking dessert was sitting on the counter.

"This is a Coffee Charlotte," she said proudly. "I learned how to make it from my grandmother when I was a little girl."

I was intrigued by the dessert and couldn't wait to try it. Emily served me a generous slice and as soon as I took my first bite, I was in love. The creamy coffee-flavored custard paired perfectly with the crunchy ladyfinger cookies. It was a dessert unlike any I had ever tasted before.

I begged Emily to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. She walked me through each step, from brewing the perfect cup of coffee to layering the custard and cookies in a beautiful mold. It was a labor of love, but the end result was well worth it.

From that day on, Coffee Charlotte became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and whenever I needed a pick-me-up. The recipe was a hit every time, and I quickly became known among my friends and family as the Coffee Charlotte queen.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to make it my own. I added a splash of rum to the custard for an extra kick, and sometimes I sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for a touch of decadence. But no matter how I choose to make it, the essence of the recipe remains the same - a labor of love that never fails to bring a smile to my loved ones' faces.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the Coffee Charlotte recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and memories that have blossomed from it. Every time I make the dessert, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Emily's kitchen, surrounded by laughter and love.

I am grateful for the traditions and recipes that have been passed down through generations, connecting me to my past and shaping my future. And I am grateful for the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious dessert with the people I love most.

So here I am, many years later, still making Coffee Charlotte for my family and friends. And as I serve each slice with a smile, I know that the memory of discovering this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart.