DIETARY CHARLOTTE

Ingredients

Charlotte

63 grams (0.5 cup) flour
40 grams (0.5 cup) ground oatmeal
8 grams (2 tsp) sweetener
1 large egg
2 large egg whites
160 grams (2 plums)
360 grams (3 medium apples)
vanilla extract (to taste)
ground cinnamon (to taste)

Equipment

Mixer
A trusty mixer helps you achieve a fluffy, well-combined batter. If you don’t have one, a good old-fashioned whisk will do the job, though it’ll take a bit more elbow grease.
Baking Mold
Choose a non-stick baking mold to make sure your charlotte comes out perfectly shaped. Grease it lightly to help with the release.
Oven
An accurate oven is key. Ensure your oven is preheated to the exact temperature for best results. It’s always good to have an oven thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature.
Spatula
A spatula will help you to spread the batter evenly and make sure no deliciousness is left behind.

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Mix the eggs with the sweetener, and whip them with a mixer until fluffy. Then carefully add the flour and the ground oatmeal while continuing to whip. Mix everything thoroughly and let the dough stand for 5 to 10 minutes. For best results, use room temperature eggs.

Step 2

Step 2: Wash the apples thoroughly and remove the seeds. You can also peel them if preferred. Slice the apples into thin pieces. Peeling the apples can give a smoother texture to the charlotte, but it's optional.

Step 3

Step 3: Prepare a baking mold by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. Arrange the apple slices on the bottom of the mold. A springform pan can make it easier to remove the charlotte after baking.

Step 4

Step 4: Whip the dough once again with a mixer to ensure it’s well combined and airy. Pour the dough over the apples and spread it out gently to cover all the apple slices.

Step 5

Step 5: Slice the plums into wedges and place them on top of the dough. The plums add a nice tangy contrast to the sweet apples.

Step 6

Step 6: Place the charlotte in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes at a temperature of 180-190°C (356-374°F). Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the charlotte to avoid overbaking.

Step 7

Step 7: Once baked, remove the charlotte from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. Sprinkle with some ground cinnamon or vanilla extract before serving. Bon Appetit! Letting it cool helps the charlotte to set, making it easier to slice.

Servings

Why settle for ordinary when you can make your Plum Charlotte the star of the show? Serve it warm right out of the oven with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs perfectly with its fruity flavors. Hosting a brunch? Slice the charlotte into squares and serve it alongside a rich, hot coffee or a chilled glass of mimosa. Your guests will love the combination of warm spices from the cinnamon and the tartness from the plums. For a classy touch, dust some powdered sugar on top before serving. Leftovers? They’re a blessing in disguise! Pack a slice in your lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up, or enjoy it as a light evening dessert. Honestly, this charlotte is scrumptious at any time of the day. The best part? You can savor it guilt-free, thanks to its healthier ingredients.

Variations

For a gluten-free variation, simply swap out the regular flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The ground oatmeal will add a lovely texture, ensuring you don’t lose out on any of the goodness. Veganifying this recipe is easier than you might think. Use flaxseed or chia seed “eggs” (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) to replace the eggs and egg whites. Instead of regular sweetener, go for agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it completely plant-based.

Faq

What can I use if I don’t have ground oatmeal?
If you don’t have ground oatmeal, you can simply grind regular oats in a food processor until you get a fine powder. Instant oats can also work in a pinch.
How do I know when the charlotte is done?
The charlotte is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking around the 35-minute mark.
Can I add other fruits to this Charlotte?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like pears or berries to the mix. Just make sure they are well-prepared and not overly juicy to avoid a soggy charlotte.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
It’s best to prepare the dough fresh to keep the rise and texture just right. However, you can prepare the fruits in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to a month.
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
You can use whole eggs, but using just egg whites will make your charlotte lighter and give it a slightly different texture.