Charlotte Cake with Berries

Charlotte Cake with Berries

Welcome to the sweet world of refined desserts! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a Charlotte Cake with Berries, a dessert that not only impresses with its appearance but also with its delicate and refreshing taste. This recipe has a special story, created to celebrate a special anniversary of my best friend. The cake is a tempting combination of diplomat, cream, and charlotte, perfect for warm days or any occasion. May every bite bring you joy and beautiful memories alongside true friends!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 4 hours (or more)
- Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Servings: 8-10

Ingredients
- 250 g Savoiardi biscuits
- 4 eggs
- 1 l milk
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 vanilla pod
- 4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 packets of gelatin
- 300 ml whipped cream
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 300 g berries (raspberries and blueberries)
- For decoration:
- 1 blood orange from Sicily or 1/2 red grapefruit
- 1/2 lime

Necessary Utensils
- A cake pan with removable details (approximately 24 cm in diameter)
- An electric mixer
- A saucepan
- A spatula
- A mixing bowl
- A sieve (optional)

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Base
Start by placing half of the Savoiardi biscuits at the bottom of the cake pan. These will form the delicious base of your dessert. Lightly soak them with a fine liqueur of your choice; I used a berry liqueur, which adds a note of freshness and a subtle taste. Don’t forget to place the citrus slices (lemon or lime) around the edge of the pan; these are just for decoration but add a vibrant look to the cake.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream
In a saucepan, heat the milk. When the milk is almost boiling, add the egg yolks mixed with sugar, vanilla, and cornstarch. It is important that all ingredients are well mixed to obtain a smooth cream. Add the zest and juice of the lemon and lime, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes a thick cream, similar to sour cream. Now, let the cream cool slightly and add the gelatin prepared according to the instructions on the packet.

Step 3: Beating the Egg Whites and Whipped Cream
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is essential to give the cake an airy texture. Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled cream, stirring lightly to avoid losing air from the mixture. Then, whip the cream until it becomes firm and incorporate it into the egg mixture as well. This combination will make the cake incredibly creamy and light.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake
Carefully pour the obtained cream into the cake pan over the biscuits. Sprinkle the berries (raspberries and blueberries) evenly over the surface of the cream. They not only add a delicious taste but also a colorful and appetizing look.

Step 5: Cooling
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This cooling time will allow the gelatin to set and the cream to firm up perfectly.

Step 6: Decorating
Once the cake has cooled sufficiently and set, carefully remove the edge of the pan. Decorate the cake as desired, using slices of blood orange from Sicily or red grapefruit and a few remaining berries. A touch of green from the lime slices will add a fresh air.

Practical Tip
For an extra hint of flavor, you can add a few fresh mint leaves on top of the cake, giving it an elegant look and a note of freshness.

Variations
For a more exotic version, try replacing the berries with mango or peaches, which will add a natural sweetness to your cake.

Nutritional Information
A serving of Charlotte Cake with Berries contains approximately 350 calories, making it a lighter choice compared to other rich desserts. Additionally, berries are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, being beneficial for health.

Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or fresh lemonade. Also, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will create a delightful contrast between warm and cold.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of gelatin?
Yes, vegetarian gelatin or agar-agar can be used instead of traditional gelatin, but it is important to check the usage instructions as they may vary.

2. How can I improve the texture of the cake?
Make sure the egg whites are beaten well, but also that the cream is whipped to the right point. The delicate mixing will maintain the airiness.

3. How long can the cake be stored in the refrigerator?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

The Story of the Dessert
The Charlotte cake has its origins in classic pastry recipes and was originally created to honor a queen. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted into different variations, becoming popular among sweet lovers. This recipe pays homage to this tradition, combining simple ingredients with a technique that transforms an ordinary dessert into something special.

I hope this Charlotte Cake with Berries recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy!