Dutch Lemon Charlotte

Ingredients

In this Dutch adaptation, we have incorporated Dutch culinary influences by using traditional Dutch ingredients and techniques. The original Carlota de limón typically uses condensed milk, but we have replaced it with Dutch whipped cream to achieve a lighter and creamier texture. Additionally, we have added a touch of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Carlota de limón, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) ladyfingers 200g (7 oz) ladyfingers
• 4 lemons, zest and juice 4 lemons, zest and juice
• 500ml (2 cups) Dutch whipped cream 500ml (2 cups) Dutch whipped cream
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp gelatin 2 tsp gelatin
• 250ml (1 cup) water 250ml (1 cup) water

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 11g)
• Carbohydrates: 27g (Sugar: 17g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in 50ml (1/4 cup) of water and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whip the Dutch whipped cream until soft peaks form.
4. 4.
   Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture.
5. 5.
   Heat the remaining 200ml (3/4 cup) of water in a saucepan until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and add the dissolved gelatin, stirring until fully incorporated.
6. 6.
   Gradually pour the gelatin mixture into the lemon and cream mixture, stirring gently to combine.
7. 7.
   Line the bottom of a round cake pan with ladyfingers, breaking them if necessary to fit.
8. 8.
   Pour half of the lemon mousse mixture over the ladyfingers, spreading it evenly.
9. 9.
   Repeat the layering process with another layer of ladyfingers and the remaining lemon mousse mixture.
10. 10.
    Cover the cake pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
11. 11.
    Before serving, garnish with additional lemon zest.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ladyfingers — Ensure the ladyfingers are fresh and not stale for the best texture in the dessert.
• Dutch whipped cream — Use chilled whipped cream and whip it until soft peaks form for a light and fluffy texture.
• Gelatin — Make sure to dissolve the gelatin in water before adding it to the lemon mixture to prevent lumps.

Tips & Tricks

• For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest to the mousse mixture.
• If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the amount of sugar in the lemon mixture.
• Serve the Dutch Lemon Charlotte chilled for the best taste and texture.
• Decorate the top of the dessert with fresh berries or mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
• If you can't find ladyfingers, you can substitute with sponge cake or biscuit crumbs.

Serving advice

Slice the Dutch Lemon Charlotte into individual portions and serve on dessert plates. Accompany each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the Dutch Lemon Charlotte with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also garnish with a few thin lemon slices or edible flowers for an elegant touch.