White Christmas Charlotte

White Christmas Charlotte is a festive no-bake dessert that dazzles both in taste and presentation. Made with layers of ladyfinger biscuits, creamy white chocolate mousse, fresh raspberries, and an array of holiday toppings, this elegant dessert is the perfect showstopper for your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-bake convenience: Perfect when your oven is busy with other holiday dishes.
• Visually stunning: Its tall, elegant shape makes a dramatic centerpiece.
• Holiday flavors: White chocolate, raspberries, and Turkish delight create a truly festive taste.
• Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for entertaining—just assemble and chill.
• Fun to decorate: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 27 savoiardi (ladyfinger biscuits)
• 360g white chocolate, chopped
• 600ml thickened cream, plus 300ml extra for topping
• 2 eggs, separated
• 2 teaspoons gelatine powder
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 x 125g punnets fresh raspberries
• Turkish delight, chopped
• Mini white marshmallows
• Finely chopped pistachios

For white chocolate crackles:

• 50g white chocolate, melted
• 1 cup rice bubbles (crispy rice cereal)

Directions

1. Prepare the pan: Line the base of a 21cm springform pan with baking paper. Trim one end of each savoiardi so they stand upright inside the pan. Line the side of the pan with the biscuits, and cover the base with more, trimming to fit.
2. Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 300ml cream and chopped white chocolate. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring, until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix mousse base: Stir egg yolks into the cooled white chocolate mixture.
4. Dissolve gelatine: Sprinkle gelatine over 2 tablespoons of water. Let sit for 3 minutes, then microwave for 20 seconds and stir into the chocolate mixture.
5. Whip cream and egg whites: Beat remaining 300ml cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat egg whites to soft peaks. Gently fold both into the white chocolate mixture.
6. Assemble: Pour half of the mousse into the pan. Add 1½ punnets raspberries, then the rest of the mousse. Smooth the top and chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.
7. Make crackles: Mix melted white chocolate with rice bubbles and spread on a tray. Let set, then break into chunks.
8. Decorate: Unmold the charlotte and top with whipped cream, remaining raspberries, Turkish delight, marshmallows, pistachios, and white chocolate crackles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Berry mix: Add strawberries or blueberries with the raspberries.
• Nut-free: Skip the pistachios for an allergy-friendly option.
• Alcohol twist: Add a splash of Chambord or Grand Marnier to the mousse.
• Dark chocolate: Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
• Holiday spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for seasonal warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the mousse texture.
• Serving: Serve chilled, straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, it’s perfect for preparing in advance and letting chill overnight.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Fresh raspberries are best for texture, but thawed frozen berries can work in a pinch—drain well before use.

What can I substitute for savoiardi biscuits?

Try sponge cake fingers or plain ladyfingers if savoiardi are unavailable.

Is the raw egg safe?

The eggs are not fully cooked, so use pasteurized eggs or skip if concerned.

Can I leave out the gelatine?

Gelatine helps the mousse set. Without it, the texture will be looser and may not hold shape.

How do I ensure the mousse sets properly?

Make sure the gelatine is fully dissolved and the dessert is chilled for at least 6 hours.

What size pan should I use?

A 21cm (8-inch) springform pan works best for this recipe.

Can I decorate with other toppings?

Absolutely! Crushed candy canes, silver pearls, or sugared cranberries are great festive choices.

Will the biscuits get soggy?

Over time, the biscuits soften slightly, but they absorb flavor and create a lovely texture.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Freshly whipped cream is preferred for best texture and taste, but stabilized store-bought cream can be used for topping in a pinch.

Conclusion

White Christmas Charlotte is a festive, elegant dessert that brings the magic of the holidays to your table. With layers of soft biscuits, creamy white chocolate mousse, and vibrant toppings, it’s both a feast for the eyes and a treat for the tastebuds. Ideal for celebrations, it’s the no-bake showstopper your guests won’t forget.

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