The Strawberry Charlotte Cake is a stunning no-bake dessert that will impress at any gathering. With its delicate layers of soft ladyfingers, luscious strawberry mousse, and fresh strawberries, this cake offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, this elegant treat is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. Treat your guests to this refreshing dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: The Strawberry Charlotte Cake requires no baking, making it a stress-free option for novice bakers and busy hosts alike.
- Fresh Flavor: Bursting with ripe strawberries, this cake provides a refreshing taste that balances sweetness with a hint of tartness.
- Versatile Presentation: With its beautiful layered design, this cake looks fancy enough for special occasions yet is simple enough for casual family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it a day in advance! The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together.
- Customizable Layers: Feel free to swap strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making the Strawberry Charlotte Cake, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9 springform pan
- Parchment paper or clear acetate
- Electric hand mixer with whisk attachment
- Blender
- Spatula
- Piping bag with piping tip
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform Pan: Allows easy removal of the cake without damaging its delicate structure.
- Electric Hand Mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping cream to firm peaks for your mousse.
- Blender: Ensures smooth pureeing of strawberries, creating a creamy texture in your mousse.
Ingredients
A beautiful no-bake dessert made with soft ladyfingers, strawberry mousse, and fresh strawberries.
For the Gelatin Mixture
- 60 g cold water
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
For the Cake Layers
- 40 ladyfingers
- 450 g whipping cream
- 40 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Mousse
- 700 g strawberries (finely diced)
- 8 strawberries (whole, for topping)
How to Make Strawberry Charlotte Cake
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Fill a small bowl with 60g of cold water. Sprinkle gelatin powder over the water. Let this sit for at least 10 minutes to bloom the gelatin (it will become a firm gel puck).
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Line the sides of a 9 springform pan with parchment paper or clear acetate.
Step 3: Arrange Ladyfingers
Cut about 1/4 off one end of the ladyfingers that will be going around the side of the pan (about 23 ladyfingers) so that they can stand up vertically. Arrange them in a ring around the pan.
Step 4: Add Bottom Layer
Arrange a layer of ladyfingers on the bottom of the pan, cutting them smaller where needed to fill in any gaps. Add an even layer of about 200g of diced strawberries on top of the ladyfingers. Set aside.
Step 5: Whip Cream Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment to beat until firm peaks form. Reserve about 100g of whipped cream in a piping bag fitted with a piping tip for later decoration.
Step 6: Blend Strawberries
In a blender, add 250g of diced strawberries. Microwave your small bowl of bloomed gelatin for about 15 seconds until melted into liquid. Add this to the blender and blend until you achieve a smooth puree.
Step 7: Combine Mixtures
Pour the pureed strawberry mixture into the bowl of whipped cream. Fold them together gently using a spatula until no streaks remain.
Step 8: First Layer of Mousse
Add half of the strawberry mousse mixture into the prepared pan on top of the strawberry layer. Smooth into an even layer using your spatula.
Step 9: Second Layer Setup
Place another layer of ladyfingers on top. Add remaining diced strawberries on top before adding rest of mousse mixture over it and smoothing out again.
Step 10: Decorate
Pipe whipped cream around the edge on top of the cake and arrange whole strawberries as decoration.
Step 11: Chill Before Serving
Chill cake in fridge for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight so mousse firms up and ladyfingers soften. Once set, release from springform pan and tie ribbon around cake before serving.
Enjoy your delightful homemade Strawberry Charlotte Cake!
How to Serve Strawberry Charlotte Cake
Strawberry Charlotte Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests.
Individual Servings
- Serve small slices on dessert plates for a refined touch.
- Use clear glass cups to layer the mousse and ladyfingers for a stunning visual effect.
With Fresh Berries
- Top each slice with additional fresh strawberries for added color and flavor.
- Serve with a side of mixed berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to complement the strawberry taste.
Garnished with Mint
- Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of each slice for a refreshing aroma.
- Create a mint-infused syrup to drizzle over the cake for an extra layer of flavor.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for those who love extra creaminess.
- Consider flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or almond, to enhance the overall taste.
With Chocolate Sauce
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over each slice for a delicious contrast with strawberries.
- Offer both dark and white chocolate options for variety.
How to Perfect Strawberry Charlotte Cake
To create the perfect Strawberry Charlotte Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cake is not only beautiful but also delicious.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Fresh berries will enhance both taste and texture in your cake.
- Chill Properly: Make sure to chill the cake for at least 6 hours. This allows the mousse to set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Quality Gelatin: Use high-quality gelatin powder to ensure your mousse has the right consistency. Blooming it well is crucial for optimal results.
- Stabilize Whipped Cream: For better stability, consider adding a bit of cornstarch or powdered sugar while whipping the cream. This helps maintain its shape when serving.
- Decorate Thoughtfully: Use whole strawberries and mint leaves creatively. A beautiful presentation adds appeal and makes your dessert more inviting.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Charlotte Cake
Pairing sides with Strawberry Charlotte Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the tartness of strawberries.
- Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing citrus flavor provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse can serve as an indulgent contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Pistachio Tart: The nutty flavor of pistachios pairs well with strawberries, creating an elegant dessert duo.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides freshness alongside the rich cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can offer a savory balance to the sweet flavors of Strawberry Charlotte Cake.
- Coffee or Espresso: Serving a cup of strong coffee can perfectly complement the sweetness, balancing out flavors nicely.
- Peach Compote: A warm peach compote adds warmth and sweetness, pairing beautifully with cold Strawberry Charlotte Cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Strawberry Charlotte Cake, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the gelatin blooming: If you don’t allow the gelatin to bloom properly, it won’t set your mousse effectively. Always let it sit in cold water for at least 10 minutes.
- Not using fresh strawberries: Using frozen or low-quality strawberries can affect the flavor and texture of your cake. Choose ripe, fresh strawberries for the best taste.
- Overmixing the whipped cream: Overwhipping can turn cream into butter, ruining the light texture of your mousse. Whip until firm peaks form but don’t go beyond that.
- Neglecting chilling time: Skipping or shortening the chilling time can lead to a runny mousse. Allow at least 6 hours in the fridge for optimal firmness.
- Ignoring size adjustments: Using the wrong size springform pan can affect how your cake sets. Make sure to use a 9 pan as specified in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Enjoy within 2-3 days for best taste and texture.
Freezing Strawberry Charlotte Cake
- You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Best consumed within one month of freezing for optimal flavor.
Reheating Strawberry Charlotte Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Strawberry Charlotte Cake.
How long does it take to make Strawberry Charlotte Cake?
The total time is about 6 hours and 45 minutes, including preparation and chilling times.
Can I use other fruits in Strawberry Charlotte Cake?
Yes! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for different flavors.
Is Strawberry Charlotte Cake gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free ladyfingers, this dessert can be gluten-free. Always check packaging for specific dietary needs.
What is the best way to serve Strawberry Charlotte Cake?
Serve chilled with extra fresh strawberries or whipped cream on top for an elegant touch.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Charlotte Cake is a beautiful dessert that delights with its layers of flavor and texture. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or flavors to suit your taste!
Strawberry Charlotte Cake
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Strawberry Charlotte Cake, a stunning no-bake dessert that captures the essence of summer. This elegant treat features layers of soft ladyfingers enveloped in a luscious strawberry mousse, complemented by fresh strawberries on top. Perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to picnics—this cake is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Impress your guests with a dessert that’s not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 40 ladyfingers
- 450g whipping cream
- 700g strawberries (finely diced)
- 60g cold water
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
- 40g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whole strawberries (for topping)
Instructions
- Bloom gelatin by sprinkling it over cold water; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Line a 9" springform pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange ladyfingers around the pan and place more at the bottom.
- Top with diced strawberries.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until firm peaks form; set aside some for decoration.
- Blend some strawberries with melted gelatin; mix into whipped cream until combined.
- Layer half the mousse over the strawberries, followed by more ladyfingers and remaining mousse.
- Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving. Decorate with whipped cream and whole strawberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
