Hazelnut Charlotte
Hazelnut Charlotte Recipe - Traditional Romanian Dessert
Introduction
Hazelnut Charlotte is a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for any day of the week. This recipe combines the rich flavors of toasted hazelnuts, creamy whipped cream, and a hint of rum for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
History
The Hazelnut Charlotte is a classic dessert that originated in France. It is a variation of the traditional Charlotte cake, which is a type of dessert made with ladyfingers or sponge cake and a creamy filling. The addition of toasted hazelnuts in this recipe adds a unique and nutty flavor to the dessert.
Ingredients
- 10 oz (300 g) whipped cream
- 1 qt (1 liter) milk
- 6 eggs
- 6 tbsp gelatine
- 7 oz (200 g) toasted and ground hazelnuts
- 12 oz (350 g) sugar
- 1 cup rum
- some grated lemon peel
How to prepare
- Mix the egg yolks with the sugar.
- Add the milk and mix well. Set it to heat, stirring continuously until it becomes very hot and thickened.
- Remove from heat and add the beaten egg whites, ground hazelnuts, rum, lemon peel, and gelatin dissolved in 2 – 3 tbsp of hot water.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate it.
- Serve garnished with whipped cream.
Variations
- Substitute almonds or walnuts for the hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of chocolate ganache or raspberry sauce between the layers for a twist on the classic recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to toast the hazelnuts before grinding them to bring out their rich flavor.
- Be sure to dissolve the gelatin in hot water before adding it to the mixture to ensure it sets properly.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least a few hours before serving to allow it to set and develop its flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hazelnut Charlotte with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts for an extra touch of elegance.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to fold in the whipped cream gently to maintain the light and airy texture of the dessert.
- Use a springform pan or a mold with a removable bottom for easy removal of the dessert.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use almond extract or vanilla extract instead of rum for a non-alcoholic version of the dessert.
- Substitute agar agar for gelatin for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Make Ahead Tips
Hazelnut Charlotte can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve. This dessert actually benefits from being made ahead of time as it allows the flavors to meld together.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Hazelnut Charlotte with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Hazelnut Charlotte with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a delightful end to a meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Hazelnut Charlotte in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the dessert to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Hazelnut Charlotte contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Hazelnut Charlotte contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Hazelnut Charlotte contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Hazelnut Charlotte contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Hazelnuts are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper, which are essential for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains hazelnuts, eggs, and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please be mindful of any food allergies when preparing and serving this dessert.
Summary
Hazelnut Charlotte is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
Summary
Hazelnut Charlotte is a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy this indulgent treat with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly memorable dining experience.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. The delicate layers of hazelnut meringue and creamy filling seemed to call out to me, begging me to recreate it in my own kitchen. I had never attempted anything quite like it before, but I was determined to master the art of making a Hazelnut Charlotte.
I first came across the recipe in an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Margaret. She had always been my go-to source for new and interesting recipes, and I knew that this one would be no exception. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the sweet and nutty flavors dancing on my tongue.
I decided to pay Margaret a visit and ask her to show me how to make the Hazelnut Charlotte. She welcomed me into her kitchen with open arms, eager to pass on her culinary knowledge to me. Together, we gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work creating the masterpiece.
The first step was to make the hazelnut meringue, which required finely ground hazelnuts, sugar, and egg whites. Margaret taught me how to fold the ingredients together gently, creating a light and airy mixture that would form the base of the Charlotte. As we worked, she regaled me with stories of how she had learned the recipe from an old French friend many years ago.
Next, we moved on to the creamy filling, a luscious blend of mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, and a hint of vanilla. Margaret showed me how to layer the meringue and filling in a springform pan, creating a beautiful and elegant dessert that would be the perfect ending to any meal.
As the Hazelnut Charlotte baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, Margaret and I sat down to enjoy a cup of tea and catch up on old times. She told me about the countless recipes she had collected over the years, each one a cherished memory of a special person or place.
When the Charlotte was finally ready, we removed it from the oven and let it cool before slicing into it. The first bite was pure bliss, the crunchy meringue giving way to the creamy filling in a symphony of flavors and textures. Margaret beamed with pride as she watched me savor each mouthful, knowing that I had successfully mastered the art of making a Hazelnut Charlotte.
As I left Margaret's kitchen that day, recipe in hand and heart full of gratitude, I knew that I had not only learned how to make a delicious dessert, but I had also gained a deeper appreciation for the joy of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. The Hazelnut Charlotte would forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the power of a shared recipe.
Categories
| Egg Recipes | Gelatin Recipes | Hazelnut Meal Recipes | Lemon Peel Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Romanian Desserts | Romanian Recipes | Rum Recipes |