French Raspberry Charlotte Cake

The French Raspberry Charlotte Cake, also known as “Charlotte aux Framboises,” is a delightful and elegant dessert that embodies the essence of French pastry artistry. This dessert features layers of delicate ladyfingers or sponge cake, encased in a ring or mold, and filled with a luscious raspberry mousse. The combination of the airy, raspberry-infused mousse and the soft, spongy cake creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Topped with fresh raspberries and often adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar or a glossy raspberry glaze, the Raspberry Charlotte Cake is not only a visual masterpiece but a taste of exquisite French culinary craftsmanship. It is a popular choice for special occasions and showcases the allure of fresh, vibrant raspberries in a beautiful and indulgent dessert.

What is French Raspberry Charlotte Cake?

The French Raspberry Charlotte Cake, also known as “Charlotte aux Framboises,” is a classic French dessert that consists of several key components:

Ladyfingers or Sponge Cake: The base of a Raspberry Charlotte Cake typically uses ladyfingers or sponge cake. These serve as a stable foundation for the dessert.
Raspberry Mousse: The highlight of the dessert is the raspberry mousse. It’s made by pureeing fresh or frozen raspberries and incorporating them into a mixture of whipped cream, egg whites, sugar, and gelatin. The result is a light, airy, and fruity mousse that’s bursting with raspberry flavor.
Mold or Ring: To assemble the cake, the ladyfingers or sponge cake are often arranged around the inside of a ring or mold to create the cake’s cylindrical shape.

Fruit Garnish: Fresh raspberries are typically used to decorate the top of the Raspberry Charlotte Cake. These add a burst of color and extra fruity goodness.
Glaze or Dusting (Optional): Some variations of the dessert feature a glossy raspberry glaze drizzled over the top, adding an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Alternatively, a dusting of powdered sugar may be used for a simple finishing touch.

French Raspberry Charlotte Cake is known for its elegant presentation and the balance between the airy mousse and the more substantial cake layer. It’s a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations, offering a delightful combination of textures and the vibrant, sweet-tart flavor of fresh raspberries.

Why you will love French Raspberry Charlotte Cake?

Elegant Presentation: The Raspberry Charlotte Cake is known for its stunning appearance. The cylindrical shape and vibrant red raspberry garnish make it an elegant and eye-catching dessert, perfect for special occasions.
Delightful Flavor: The cake offers a delightful combination of flavors. The sweet and tart raspberry mousse is complemented by the sponge cake or ladyfingers, creating a balanced and harmonious taste.
Light and Airy Texture: The mousse in the Raspberry Charlotte Cake is incredibly light and airy, providing a contrast to the denser cake base. It’s a joy to savor the delicate texture of the mousse.

Seasonal Appeal: Raspberries are in season during the summer, making this dessert a perfect choice for warm-weather gatherings. The natural sweetness of fresh raspberries adds a refreshing touch.
Customization: You can adapt the dessert by using other fruits if you prefer, allowing for creativity and personalization. The recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste and the availability of fruits.
French Culinary Tradition: This dessert is a classic in French pastry, offering a taste of traditional French cuisine. Enjoying it can be a culinary journey to France without leaving your home.

Impressive for Guests: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, the Raspberry Charlotte Cake is sure to impress your guests with its visual appeal and exquisite taste.
Versatile Accompaniments: It pairs well with various accompaniments like whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce, allowing you to customize your experience.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dessert in advance and refrigerate it, making it a convenient choice for planning ahead.

Memorable Moments: Serving Raspberry Charlotte Cake can create lasting memories, making it perfect for celebrations, holidays, and family gatherings.

The Raspberry Charlotte Cake is a dessert that not only tastes wonderful but also offers a delightful sensory experience, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the art of French pastry and a touch of sophistication in their sweet treats.

French Raspberry Charlotte Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Raspberry Mousse:

2 cups fresh raspberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons gelatin powder
3 tablespoons cold water

1 1/2 cups heavy cream
4 large egg whites

For the Cake Base:

12-14 ladyfingers or a sponge cake, cut into slices
1/4 cup raspberry liqueur (optional)
Fresh raspberries for garnish

For the Raspberry Glaze (Optional):

1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Preparing the Raspberry Mousse:

In a blender, puree the fresh raspberries until smooth. Pass the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds, then stir in the lemon juice.

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
In a saucepan, warm the raspberry puree and 1/4 cup of sugar over low heat. Once warmed, remove from heat.
Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm raspberry puree, stirring until fully dissolved.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set it aside.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar until they form stiff peaks.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the raspberry puree mixture, followed by the beaten egg whites. Be careful not to overmix; the mousse should remain light and airy.

Assembling the Cake:

Line the sides of a round mold or a ring with plastic wrap or acetate strips. Place the ladyfingers or sponge cake slices on the bottom to create the base.
Optional: Sprinkle the cake base with raspberry liqueur to add flavor.

Pour the raspberry mousse into the mold, covering the cake base evenly.
Top with fresh raspberries for garnish.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to allow the mousse to set.

For the Raspberry Glaze (Optional):

In a blender, puree the fresh raspberries with powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Strain the glaze to remove seeds.

Before serving, drizzle the glaze over the top of the Raspberry Charlotte Cake.
Carefully remove the mold or ring, peeling off the plastic wrap.
Slice and serve, garnishing with extra fresh raspberries if desired.

Enjoy your homemade French Raspberry Charlotte Cake, a delightful and elegant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations!

Nutrition information

The nutrition information for a French Raspberry Charlotte Cake can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. However, here’s a general estimate for a typical serving of this dessert:

Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving

Nutrient Breakdown (Approximate):

Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams

Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 20-25 grams

Protein: 5-7 grams

Please note that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on factors such as the specific brands and types of ingredients used, portion size, and any optional additions or variations to the recipe. For more accurate nutrition information, it’s recommended to calculate the values based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in your preparation, especially if you have dietary restrictions or specific nutritional needs.

Tips to make perfect French Raspberry Charlotte Cake

To create a perfect French Raspberry Charlotte Cake, follow these tips to ensure that your dessert turns out beautifully and delicious:

1. Choose Ripe Raspberries:

Use fresh, ripe raspberries for the mousse and garnish. Ripe raspberries provide the best flavor and color.

2. Gelatin Handling:

When using gelatin, ensure it’s fully dissolved and properly incorporated into the raspberry puree to prevent lumps or grainy texture in the mousse.

3. Gentle Folding:

When folding the whipped cream and beaten egg whites into the raspberry mixture, do so gently and gradually to maintain the mousse’s airy texture.

4. Taste for Balance:

Taste the raspberry mousse as you go. Adjust the sweetness or tartness with sugar or lemon juice to achieve the desired flavor balance.

5. Sponge Cake Soaking (Optional):

If using ladyfingers or sponge cake for the base, consider lightly brushing them with raspberry liqueur or a simple syrup to add moisture and flavor.

6. Mold Preparation:

Properly line the mold or ring with plastic wrap or acetate strips. This ensures easy removal of the cake and a clean, cylindrical shape.

7. Allow Time for Setting:

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to let the mousse set properly. This step is crucial for the dessert’s texture and flavor.

8. Garnish with Fresh Raspberries:

Use fresh raspberries for the garnish on top of the cake. They not only enhance the presentation but also provide a burst of fresh flavor and texture.

9. Strain the Raspberry Glaze (Optional):

If making a glaze, ensure it’s smooth and seed-free by straining it before drizzling it over the cake.

10. Unmolding:

When removing the mold or ring, be patient and gentle to avoid damaging the cake’s structure. Peel off the plastic wrap carefully.

11. Serving Accompaniments:

Serve the Raspberry Charlotte Cake with accompaniments such as whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the experience.

12. Customize with Berries:

You can customize the cake by using a mix of berries, like strawberries or blueberries, in addition to or instead of raspberries, for variety.

13. Preparing in Advance:

This dessert can be made in advance, which can be convenient for planning special occasions. The flavors meld and improve with time in the refrigerator.

By following these tips, you can create a perfect French Raspberry Charlotte Cake that’s not only visually impressive but also a delectable treat with a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

How to serve

Serving French Raspberry Charlotte Cake is a delightful experience, and there are a few steps to ensure it’s presented beautifully and enjoyed to the fullest:

Chilled or Slightly Thawed: The Raspberry Charlotte Cake is best served when it’s chilled or slightly thawed, depending on your preference. It’s often refrigerated for several hours or overnight to allow the mousse to set properly.
Unmolding: If the cake was prepared in a mold or ring, carefully remove the mold or ring before serving. This is done by gently peeling off the plastic wrap or acetate strips used to line the mold. Be patient to avoid damaging the cake’s structure.

Slice Neatly: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife to slice the cake neatly. A clean, smooth cut helps maintain the dessert’s elegant appearance.
Garnish: Decorate the individual slices or the serving platter with additional fresh raspberries. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing and fruity element to each serving.
Serve with Raspberry Glaze (Optional): If you made a raspberry glaze, you can drizzle it over the top of each slice or serve it on the side. The glaze adds an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish to the cake.

Accompaniments: French Raspberry Charlotte Cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with accompaniments. Consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a fruit coulis on the side for added richness and variety.
Pair with Beverages: The cake pairs well with a range of beverages. Consider serving it with coffee, tea, champagne, or a dessert wine like a sweet Riesling or a sparkling Rosé.
Decorative Touch (Optional): For a finishing touch, you can garnish the dessert plates with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for added visual appeal.

Remember that serving French Raspberry Charlotte Cake is an opportunity to create an elegant and indulgent dessert experience for your guests or loved ones. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as a delightful treat, it’s sure to be a memorable and enjoyable part of the meal.

How to store

To store French Raspberry Charlotte Cake and maintain its freshness, follow these guidelines:

1. Refrigeration:

After serving or if you have leftovers, store the Raspberry Charlotte Cake in the refrigerator. The refrigeration temperature should be set at or below 40°F (4°C).

2. Cover and Protect:

Ensure the cake is well-covered. You can use plastic wrap, an airtight container, or a cake dome. If you used a mold or ring, consider reusing it for storage, as long as it’s well-covered with plastic wrap.

3. Avoid Odor Absorption:

To prevent the cake from absorbing odors from other items in the fridge, keep it in a dedicated space or within a sealed container.

4. Serve Within a Few Days:

For the best taste and texture, consume the refrigerated cake within a few days. The freshness and quality will begin to decline after this period.

5. Avoid Freezing the Whole Cake:

It’s not recommended to freeze the entire Raspberry Charlotte Cake, as the mousse may not maintain its texture and quality when thawed.

6. Freeze the Cake Base (Optional):

If you have a lot of leftover cake base (ladyfingers or sponge cake), you can freeze it separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it before assembling a new cake with fresh mousse when needed.

7. Serve Chilled or Slightly Thawed:

When serving refrigerated Raspberry Charlotte Cake, it can be enjoyed chilled or slightly thawed, depending on your preference. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a short time to reach the desired temperature.

Proper storage in the refrigerator and careful handling will help preserve the quality and flavor of your French Raspberry Charlotte Cake. Be mindful of its shelf life, and consume it within a reasonable time frame to enjoy it at its best.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen raspberries for the mousse? A1: Yes, frozen raspberries can be used to make the mousse. Thaw them and then puree them to create the raspberry puree.

Q2: How can I prevent the mousse from being too runny? A2: To avoid a runny mousse, make sure to properly hydrate and dissolve the gelatin, and fold it gently into the whipped cream. Overmixing can cause the mousse to become too liquid.

Q3: Can I substitute the ladyfingers with sponge cake or biscuit joconde? A3: Yes, you can substitute ladyfingers with sponge cake or biscuit joconde (a type of sponge cake) for the base of the Charlotte. Make sure it’s sliced or shaped to fit the mold.

Q4: Can I make the Raspberry Charlotte Cake ahead of time? A4: Yes, you can prepare a Raspberry Charlotte Cake in advance. It’s often recommended to refrigerate it for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to set properly.

Q5: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the mold when unmolding it? A5: To prevent sticking, you can line the mold or ring with plastic wrap or acetate strips before assembling the Charlotte. This makes it easier to release the cake when unmolding.

Q6: My mousse is lumpy. What went wrong? A6: Lumpy mousse can occur if the raspberry puree isn’t smooth or if the gelatin is not completely dissolved. Make sure your puree is well-blended and strain it if necessary. Dissolve the gelatin in hot water before adding it to the mousse.

Q7: Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries? A7: Yes, you can adapt the recipe to use other fruits of your choice, such as strawberries, blueberries, or a combination. Adjust the sugar and flavorings to match the fruit you’re using.

Q8: What can I do if my mousse isn’t setting in the refrigerator? A8: If the mousse isn’t setting, it may not have enough time to chill or the gelatin might not have been fully dissolved. Allow it more time in the refrigerator or double-check the gelatin preparation and incorporation into the mousse.

Q9: Can I freeze a Raspberry Charlotte Cake? A9: While the mousse can be challenging to freeze due to its texture, you can freeze the cake base (ladyfingers or sponge cake) and add the mousse and toppings after thawing for a fresher result.

Q10: How do I store leftovers of a Raspberry Charlotte Cake? A10: Store any leftover Raspberry Charlotte Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Consume it within a few days for the best taste and texture.

By addressing these FAQs and troubleshooting tips, you can create a beautiful and delicious French Raspberry Charlotte Cake with confidence.

Happy baking!