Desserts > Cake > French Cakes > Charlotte Cakes

Vanilla Charlotte Cake Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 462
Fat: 20.5g
Carbohydrates: 61.3g
Protein: 6.2g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter or margarine
- Whole milk: Low-fat or non-fat milk

Variations:
- Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Substitute the vanilla extract for almond extract for an almond-flavored cake.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming with the sugar.
- Beat the eggs one at a time to ensure even distribution.
- Use a light hand when folding in the dry ingredients to avoid overmixing.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds.

Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate.

Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh fruit
- Coffee

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is overbaked, it will be dry. Check the cake for doneness after 40 minutes and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- Keep the cake covered at room temperature to prevent contamination.

Food History:
Charlotte cakes originated in France in the early 19th century. They were traditionally made with ladyfingers, but have since evolved to include a variety of flavors and ingredients.

Flavor Profiles:
Vanilla Charlotte Cake has a light, fluffy texture and a sweet vanilla flavor.

Serving Suggestions:
Vanilla Charlotte Cake is best served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

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Region: French

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Vanilla, Light, Fluffy