Charlotte Aux Fraises, or Strawberry Charlotte Cake, is a classic French dessert featuring layers of ladyfinger biscuits, Bavarian cream, and fresh strawberries. This light and elegant mousse cake is a show-stopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for special occasions, it’s a delightful balance of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Lady Fingers (Optional to Use Store-Bought):

6 large eggs (separated)
150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
240g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
¼ tsp fine sea salt
Granulated sugar (for topping)

Bavarian Cream:

1 cup (240mL) whole milk
4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 Tbsp (28g) salted butter
2 tsp vanilla bean paste
1 Tbsp (9g) unflavored gelatin (dissolved in 2 Tbsp cold water)
1 ⅓ cups (320mL) heavy whipping cream (cold)
⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar

Strawberry Filling:

1 ½ lbs fresh strawberries (diced)
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
3-4 Tbsp elderflower liqueur (or substitute with lemon juice)

Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup (240mL) heavy whipping cream (cold)
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Lady Fingers (Optional if Store-Bought):

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet and an 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
Whisk egg whites in a stand mixer until frothy, then gradually add sugar while beating to stiff peaks.
Add yolks and vanilla extract, mixing briefly to combine.
Sift in flour and salt, folding gently to incorporate without deflating.
Pipe batter onto the prepared baking sheet and into the 8-inch cake pan.
Sprinkle with sugar and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Bavarian Cream:

Heat milk in a saucepan until it simmers.
Whisk yolks and sugar vigorously in a bowl, then slowly pour in half the milk to temper.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until slightly thickened.
Stir in butter and vanilla, then mix in dissolved gelatin. Chill for 2 hours.
Whip cream with powdered sugar to stiff peaks, then fold into the custard.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling:

Toss diced strawberries with sugar and elderflower liqueur. Let macerate for at least 1 hour.
Strain to separate the juice, reserving for assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake:

Place the cake layer in a springform pan. Poke holes and drizzle with reserved strawberry juice.
Line the edges with ladyfingers. Spread half the strawberries and half the Bavarian cream over the cake.
Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers, strawberries, and cream. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Cream Topping:

Whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks. Pipe onto the cake and decorate with fresh strawberries.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 468
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sugar: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Vitamin C: 34mg

Enjoy this elegant Charlotte Aux Fraises, a dessert that combines classic French technique with delightful strawberry flavor!

What Makes Charlotte Aux Fraises Special

A Feast for the Eyes and Palate
Charlotte Aux Fraises is as beautiful as it is delicious. The upright ladyfingers create an elegant border, while the vibrant strawberries add a pop of color. Each layer offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making every bite a memorable experience.
A Celebration of Strawberries
This dessert highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh strawberries. By macerating them in sugar and elderflower liqueur, their flavor is intensified, creating a fruity, aromatic filling that complements the creamy layers.
Light Yet Indulgent
While it’s rich in flavor, the airy Bavarian cream and fresh strawberries keep the dessert light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for spring and summer celebrations.
Versatile and Adaptable
Charlotte Aux Fraises can be customized with different fruits, flavored creams, or even a splash of liqueur to suit your preferences or the occasion.

Key Components and Their Roles

Ladyfinger Biscuits (Savoiardi)
Ladyfingers form the structural base and border of the cake. Their sponge-like texture absorbs the strawberry juice and custard, adding flavor and stability. Homemade or store-bought options work equally well.
Bavarian Cream
The Bavarian cream is the heart of the dessert, offering a velvety, mousse-like texture. Made with a rich custard base and lightened with whipped cream, it’s indulgent without being heavy.
Strawberry Filling
Fresh strawberries macerated in sugar and elderflower liqueur create a juicy, aromatic filling. The reserved juice not only moistens the cake layers but also infuses them with a burst of flavor.
Whipped Cream Topping
The whipped cream topping adds a touch of lightness and a creamy finish. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness perfectly balance the bold flavors of the strawberries and custard.
Elderflower Liqueur
This optional ingredient enhances the strawberry filling with floral and citrus notes, adding a sophisticated twist. Lemon juice can be substituted for a non-alcoholic option.

Why Charlotte Aux Fraises is Perfect for Special Occasions

Elegant Presentation
The upright ladyfingers and layered filling give this dessert a refined, regal appearance. It’s a centerpiece-worthy dish that will impress your guests.
Customizable Design
The versatility of this cake allows you to personalize it for any occasion. Use a decorative ribbon around the ladyfingers, add edible flowers, or pipe intricate designs with whipped cream for a festive touch.
Make-Ahead Convenience
Charlotte Aux Fraises is best when chilled for several hours or overnight, making it a convenient choice for parties and events. You can prepare it in advance and focus on other aspects of your celebration.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors
The combination of strawberries, cream, and sponge cake appeals to a wide range of palates, ensuring it will be a hit at any gathering.

Tips for the Perfect Charlotte Aux Fraises

Choose Fresh, Ripe Strawberries
The quality of the strawberries is crucial for the flavor of this dessert. Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best results.
Ensure a Stable Structure
Arrange the ladyfingers snugly around the edge of the cake pan to create a secure border. This helps maintain the shape of the cake during assembly and chilling.
Temper the Custard
When making the Bavarian cream, temper the egg yolks with warm milk gradually to prevent curdling. This step ensures a smooth, creamy custard.
Chill Thoroughly
Allow the assembled cake to chill for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is essential for setting the layers and achieving the perfect texture.
Decorate Just Before Serving
Add the whipped cream topping and fresh strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Creative Variations of Charlotte Aux Fraises

Mixed Berry Charlotte
Replace some of the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry twist.
Chocolate Charlotte
Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cocoa powder to the Bavarian cream for a decadent chocolate-strawberry flavor.
Citrus Infusion
Add orange or lemon zest to the custard and macerate the strawberries with orange liqueur for a citrusy variation.
Nutty Delight
Sprinkle toasted almond slices or crushed pistachios between the layers for added crunch and flavor.
Tropical Flair
Substitute strawberries with mango or pineapple and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for an exotic take on the classic dessert.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Charlotte Aux Fraises chilled as a show-stopping dessert after a celebratory meal.
Pair it with a glass of champagne or sparkling wine for a truly elegant experience.
Slice with a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean, even portions.

Storage Tips:

Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep any leftovers covered to prevent the ladyfingers from drying out.
Avoid freezing, as the custard and whipped cream may lose their smooth texture.

Why You Should Try Charlotte Aux Fraises

A Timeless Classic
Charlotte Aux Fraises is steeped in French culinary tradition, making it a must-try for anyone who appreciates classic desserts.
Impressive Yet Accessible
Despite its elegant appearance, this cake is surprisingly simple to prepare, especially with store-bought ladyfingers.
A Celebration of Freshness
This dessert highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of strawberries, making it a wonderful choice for spring and summer.
A Dessert for All Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, Charlotte Aux Fraises is the perfect choice.

Conclusion

Charlotte Aux Fraises, or Strawberry Charlotte Cake, is a masterpiece of French patisserie that combines delicate ladyfingers, creamy Bavarian filling, and fresh strawberries into a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Its refined presentation, vibrant flavors, and light texture make it a versatile dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe offers an approachable way to create a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests. With its balance of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence, Charlotte Aux Fraises is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and savor the elegance of this classic French delight!