Why You’ll Love This Recipe
White Christmas Charlotte is an elegant, festive dessert that brings a touch of sophistication to your holiday table. Made with layers of ladyfingers, creamy mousse, and white chocolate, it’s both visually stunning and delightfully indulgent. This no-bake treat is perfect for special occasions, offering a balance of light texture and rich flavor, all wrapped up in a beautiful presentation.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ladyfingerswhite chocolateheavy creammascarpone cheesegelatinpowdered sugarvanilla extractmilkcranberries or red berries (for decoration)mint leaves (for garnish)
directions
Line the sides and bottom of a springform pan with ladyfingers, trimming as needed to fit snugly.
Melt the white chocolate with a splash of milk in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Let it cool slightly.
In a small bowl, bloom the gelatin in cold water, then heat gently until dissolved.
Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then set aside.
In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the melted white chocolate and dissolved gelatin to the mascarpone mixture, stirring to combine.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared ladyfinger-lined pan, smoothing the top.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Before serving, garnish with cranberries or red berries and fresh mint leaves.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings.Preparation time: 25 minutesChilling time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Variations
Use a mix of white and dark chocolate for a marbled effect.
Add orange zest or a splash of liqueur to the filling for extra depth.
Top with sugared cranberries for sparkle and crunch.
Try using flavored ladyfingers like almond or vanilla for added taste.
storage/reheating
Store White Christmas Charlotte in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Keep it covered to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors.This dessert is not suitable for freezing as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I make White Christmas Charlotte ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made a day in advance to allow it to set properly.
Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone gives a more delicate, authentic flavor.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free ladyfingers; always check labels.
Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
Yes, but follow conversion instructions carefully as agar behaves differently.
How do I keep ladyfingers from getting soggy?
Use firm ladyfingers and avoid overly wet fillings to maintain structure.
What size pan should I use?
An 8-inch springform pan is ideal for this recipe.
Can I make it without a springform pan?
Yes, but removal will be trickier; line the pan with plastic wrap for easier lifting.
How do I decorate it to look festive?
Use fresh berries, powdered sugar, and mint for a snowy, holiday look.
Can I add fruit inside the filling?
Absolutely—fold in chopped strawberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream, mascarpone alternatives, and vegan white chocolate.
Conclusion
White Christmas Charlotte is a show-stopping dessert that brings creamy indulgence and festive charm to any celebration. Its stunning layers and subtle sweetness make it a seasonal favorite that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Make it your holiday centerpiece and enjoy the elegance it brings to your table.
PrintWhite Christmas Charlotte
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and elegant dessert made with layers of ladyfingers, white chocolate mousse, and cranberries—perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 20–24 ladyfinger biscuits
- 1/4 cup orange juice or cranberry juice
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold water
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cranberries)
- White chocolate shavings and sugared cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Line a springform pan with plastic wrap. Dip ladyfingers briefly in juice and line the sides and base of the pan.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Melt white chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Cool slightly.
- Whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Warm the gelatin until dissolved, then mix with the melted chocolate.
- Fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped cream gently until combined.
- Pour half the mousse into the pan, add a layer of cranberries, then pour the remaining mousse on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Unmold the charlotte, garnish with white chocolate shavings and sugared cranberries.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your festive dessert!
Notes
- Use stabilized whipped cream for longer hold.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing or increasing the sugar in mousse.
- Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh ones aren’t available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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