Chocolate cake

Chocolate Charlotte: a refined and creamy dessert

I invite you to delight your taste buds with a recipe for chocolate charlotte, an elegant and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the smooth texture of cheese. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, but can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, bringing a touch of sweetness to your life.

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Freezing time: 4 hours
- Total: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 100 g dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (high quality)
- 3 tablespoons milk (preferably whole for better creaminess)
- 200 g butter (at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 3/4 cup sugar (approximately 150 g)
- 3 eggs (fresh, preferably from free-range chickens)
- 250 g soft white cheese (9% fat, such as cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 200 g ladyfingers (make sure they are fresh)

A bit of history:
Charlotte is a dessert with deep roots in culinary history, popular in various forms over the years. Its origins can be traced back to France, where it was created in the 18th century. This elegant dessert has evolved over time, and chocolate has become one of the most beloved ingredients. With an intense flavor and velvety texture, chocolate charlotte is perfect for impressing guests at festive meals or simply for indulging yourself.

Step by step to a perfect chocolate charlotte:

1. Preparing the chocolate cream:
In a saucepan, add 1/2 cup of sugar (approximately 75 g) and 3 tablespoons of milk. Stir constantly over low heat until the sugar completely dissolves.

- Helpful tip: Use a whisk to mix, ensuring a smooth composition. Avoid letting the temperature rise too much, as the chocolate may burn.

2. Adding the chocolate and cocoa:
Once the sugar has dissolved, add 100 g of dark chocolate broken into small pieces, along with 2 tablespoons of cocoa. Continue to stir until everything is completely melted and smooth.

3. Incorporating the butter:
Remove the saucepan from heat and add 200 g of butter at room temperature. Mix well until the butter melts and combines with the chocolate.

- Interesting detail: The butter adds unmatched creaminess, and this step is essential for a fine dessert.

4. Adding the egg yolks and cheese:
After the mixture has cooled slightly, add one egg yolk at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate 250 g of soft white cheese, ensuring a smooth composition.

5. Preparing the meringue:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites from the 3 eggs with 1/4 cup of sugar (approximately 50 g) until stiff peaks form.

- My trick: Make sure the bowl is clean and dry to achieve perfect meringue. Use an electric mixer to save time and effort.

6. Incorporating the meringue:
Gently fold the meringue into the chocolate mixture, using an up-and-down motion to avoid losing air from the foam. This will give the dessert an airy texture.

7. Preparing the mold:
Prepare a round springform pan (preferably 24 cm in diameter). Line the bottom and sides with ladyfingers dipped in rum or milk, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

8. Pouring the mixture:
Carefully pour the chocolate cream into the pan, ensuring it is even.

9. Freezing:
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is firm.

10. Serving:
Before serving, remove the charlotte from the freezer and let it thaw for 10-15 minutes. Dust a little cocoa through a sieve for an elegant touch, then carefully remove the sides of the pan.

- Serving suggestion: You can add some fresh berries or a fruit sauce for a touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the final taste will be much sweeter. Dark chocolate provides a delicious contrast to the cheese.

- How can I adapt the recipe to make it vegan?
Replace the butter with a plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative. Also, look for a high-quality vegan chocolate.

- Can I store the charlotte in the fridge?
Yes, it can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
This chocolate charlotte is not only a delicious dessert but also one with nutritional benefits. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can help improve mood. The white cheese provides essential proteins, and the eggs contribute to vitamin intake. Of course, moderation is key to enjoying this dessert without worries.

In conclusion, chocolate charlotte is a perfect choice for anyone looking to impress with a refined and delicious dessert. So gather your ingredients and unleash your creativity in the kitchen! Your friends and family will surely be delighted by this delicacy. Bon appétit!