Vanilla Charlotte

Vanilla Charlotte Recipe from Romania with Milk, Egg Yolks, Gelatine and Sugar

Region / culture: Romania | Servings: 6

Introduction

Vanilla Charlotte is a classic dessert that is both elegant and delicious. This recipe features a creamy vanilla custard encased in ladyfinger biscuits, creating a beautiful and impressive dessert that is perfect for any special occasion.

History

The Vanilla Charlotte dessert has its origins in France, where it was created in the 18th century. It is named after Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III of England, who was known for her love of desserts. The dessert quickly became popular in French cuisine and has since become a beloved classic around the world.

Ingredients

0.5 lb / 250 g of sugar
6 egg yolks
1.5 qt / 1.5 liter of milk
0.5 vanilla stick
8 tbsp of gelatine

How to prepare

Boil the milk with the vanilla.
While the milk is boiling, combine the yolks with the sugar.
Once the milk has boiled, remove it from heat and gradually add the yolk mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Dissolve the gelatine in 4 – 5 tbsp of hot water and mix it with the warm mixture.
Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate it.
Before serving, briefly place the mold in a bowl of hot water and then turn it onto a plate.

Variations

Try adding a layer of fruit compote or jam between the custard and ladyfinger biscuits for a fruity twist.
Substitute the vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the custard constantly while adding the yolk mixture to prevent it from curdling.

- Make sure to dissolve the gelatine completely in hot water before adding it to the custard mixture.

- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.

- To unmold the dessert, briefly place the mold in a bowl of hot water to help release it easily onto a plate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Vanilla Charlotte with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Vanilla Charlotte is to properly thicken the custard and allow it to set in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

Make Ahead Tips

Vanilla Charlotte can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Vanilla Charlotte with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Vanilla Charlotte with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Vanilla Charlotte in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, briefly place the mold in a bowl of hot water to soften the custard before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Vanilla Charlotte contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Vanilla Charlotte contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Vanilla Charlotte contains approximately 10g of fats.

Proteins

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

Vitamins and minerals

Vanilla Charlotte is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Vanilla Charlotte is a rich and creamy dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a delicious treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Vanilla Charlotte is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its creamy custard and delicate ladyfinger biscuits, it is a perfect ending to any meal. Enjoy this elegant dessert with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of my grandmother's belongings in her attic. As I sifted through the dusty papers and trinkets, I stumbled upon a tattered, yellowed piece of paper with delicate handwriting. It was a recipe for Vanilla Charlotte, a dessert I had never heard of before.

Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the paper and began to read the instructions. The recipe called for layers of ladyfingers soaked in rum, a light and airy vanilla cream filling, and a topping of fresh berries. It sounded absolutely divine, and I knew I had to try making it.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled wistfully as she recalled how she had learned to make it many years ago. She told me that she had acquired the recipe from a close friend during a trip to France, where Vanilla Charlotte was a popular dessert. My grandmother's friend had shown her how to make it, and she had been making it ever since.

Excited to continue the tradition, I set out to gather the ingredients for the Vanilla Charlotte. I carefully measured out the sugar, flour, eggs, and vanilla extract, taking care to follow the instructions exactly as they were written. As I worked, I could almost picture my grandmother and her friend in a cozy French kitchen, laughing and sharing recipes as they baked together.

After hours of mixing, baking, and assembling, the Vanilla Charlotte was finally ready. The layers of ladyfingers were perfectly soaked in rum, the vanilla cream filling was light and fluffy, and the fresh berries glistened on top. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dessert with my family.

As we sat down to enjoy the Vanilla Charlotte, my family's faces lit up with delight. The dessert was a hit, with everyone raving about the delicate flavors and creamy texture. I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated a recipe that had been passed down through generations.

Since that day, Vanilla Charlotte has become a staple in our family gatherings. I make it whenever I want to bring a taste of France into our home, and it never fails to impress. My grandmother's legacy lives on through this recipe, reminding me of the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food with loved ones.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in the attic, I can't help but feel grateful for the treasure I uncovered. The recipe for Vanilla Charlotte has brought me closer to my grandmother and her memories, and I will cherish it for years to come. Cooking is more than just preparing food – it is a way to connect with our past, create new traditions, and nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am eternally grateful.