Ladyfinger Charlotte

Ladyfinger Charlotte Recipe from Romania with Praline Walnut or Hazelnut Cream

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

Ladyfinger Charlotte is a classic dessert that combines the delicate flavors of ladyfingers, whipped cream, and a delicious praline cream. This elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a stunning and delicious treat.

History

The Ladyfinger Charlotte recipe has its origins in France, where it was a popular dessert served at elegant dinner parties and special occasions. The combination of ladyfingers, whipped cream, and praline cream creates a light and airy dessert that is both visually stunning and delicious.

Ingredients

5 egg yolks
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
8 tbsp gelatin
0.5 lb / 250 g ladyfingers
0.5 lb / 250 g whipped cream
5 oz / 150 g Praline walnut or hazelnut cream
peanuts or walnuts
vanilla
rum

How to prepare

Heat the milk and add the beaten yolks, sugar, vanilla, and rum. Mix continuously until it thickens.
Remove from heat and add the gelatine dissolved in 2 – 3 tbsp of hot water. Mix well and let it cool slightly.
Meanwhile, arrange the ladyfingers soaked in a thin syrup of sugar and rum in a special charlotte mold. Place them on the bottom and sides of the mold.
Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add the hazelnuts, whipped cream, and rum. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into the mold with the ladyfingers.
Refrigerate for 3 – 4 hours.
When serving, turn the mold upside down onto a plate.

Variations

You can add different flavors to the praline cream, such as chocolate or coffee, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Try using different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, in place of the walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the ladyfingers in a thin syrup of sugar and rum to add extra flavor to the dessert.

- Be sure to mix the gelatin well with the hot water before adding it to the milk mixture to ensure it dissolves properly.

- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3-4 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ladyfinger Charlotte can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream on top. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Ladyfinger Charlotte is to properly soak the ladyfingers in the sugar and rum syrup and to allow the dessert to set in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ladyfingers on hand, you can use sponge cake or pound cake as a substitute. You can also use almond extract in place of the rum for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Ladyfinger Charlotte can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

To make your Ladyfinger Charlotte even more visually appealing, you can garnish it with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pairs well with a glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Riesling or Moscato. It also goes well with a cup of espresso or cappuccino.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Ladyfinger Charlotte can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ladyfinger Charlotte contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Ladyfinger Charlotte is a dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates due to the sugar and ladyfingers used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dessert is also high in fats due to the whipped cream and praline cream used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Ladyfinger Charlotte contains a moderate amount of protein, with each serving providing around 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, but it does contain some calcium and iron from the milk and egg yolks used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and nuts (walnuts), which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dessert to guests.

Summary

Ladyfinger Charlotte is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a moderate source of protein and contains some calcium and iron.

Summary

Ladyfinger Charlotte is a classic dessert that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a stunning and delicious treat. With its delicate flavors and elegant presentation, this dessert is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. My mother had invited some of her friends over for tea, and I wanted to surprise them with a special dessert. As I rummaged through our old recipe box, I stumbled upon a worn and yellowed card with the words "Ladyfinger Charlotte" scrawled across the top.

Intrigued, I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions. Ladyfingers, whipped cream, fresh berries - it all sounded so delicious. I had never heard of a dessert like this before, but I was determined to try my hand at making it. With my mother's guidance, I set to work in our humble kitchen, eager to create something beautiful and tasty.

As I measured and mixed, I couldn't help but marvel at the way the ingredients came together to form a delicate, light dessert. The ladyfingers softened in the layers of whipped cream and berries, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. When I finally presented the finished Ladyfinger Charlotte to our guests, they were amazed at my skill and creativity. I felt a swell of pride in my chest, knowing that I had created something truly special.

From that day on, Ladyfinger Charlotte became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over, or when I simply wanted to treat my family to something sweet, I would whip up a batch of this delicious dessert. Over the years, I made small tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make Ladyfinger Charlotte for special occasions and gatherings. It became a tradition in our home, a symbol of love and care that I could share with my loved ones. I taught my daughters how to make it, passing down the recipe and the memories that went along with it.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I still find joy in making Ladyfinger Charlotte for my family. It brings back memories of that first time I discovered the recipe, of the excitement and pride I felt as a young girl in the kitchen. And as I watch my grandchildren enjoy each bite of this delicious dessert, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and fulfillment.

Ladyfinger Charlotte may just be a recipe on a worn and yellowed card, but to me, it represents so much more. It's a reminder of the joy of discovery, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful, and the love that goes into every dish I make. And as long as I am able, I will continue to make this dessert for my family, passing down the tradition and the memories for generations to come.