If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that’s both irresistibly delicious and delightfully simple, the Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe is your new secret weapon. Imagine a crown of tender ladyfingers cradling layers of creamy, strawberry-kissed mousse and crowned with clouds of whipped cream and juicy berries. This no-bake beauty is pure elegance and the perfect finale to any special gathering, from birthdays to summer soirées. Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe combines classic flavors and stunning presentation in a way that always draws a chorus of wows.

Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about letting the fresh, bright taste of strawberries shine, wrapped up in luscious creaminess with just the right touch of vanilla and sweetness. Each ingredient has a part to play, so use the best you can find to make your Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe truly unforgettable.

Ladyfingers: These delicate sponge biscuits form the elegant structure of your Charlotte, soaking up the mousse and holding their shape.
Fresh strawberries (2 cups, sliced): Nothing beats the flavor of ripe strawberries, which give each bite a burst of sunshine.
Strawberry puree (1 cup): Blend up sweet strawberries and a touch of sugar—the puree brings bold berry flavor into the mousse.
Unflavored gelatin (1 packet, 7g): This helps set the mousse so it’s airy and sliceable, not runny.
Cold water (3 tbsp): Needed to bloom the gelatin, making sure your mousse achieves that perfect pillowy texture.
Heavy cream (1 ½ cups): Whipped to soft peaks, this creates a dreamy, rich mousse and luscious topping.
Powdered sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness to the cream without any grittiness, keeping everything silky smooth.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla rounds out the berry flavors and deepens the dessert’s aroma.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Gives the mousse a subtle tang and stability, keeping every slice velvety.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just enough without overpowering the strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe

Step 1: Prepare the Ladyfinger Shell

Start by choosing a springform pan, which makes unmolding your Charlotte effortless and keeps all those delicate layers picture-perfect. Line the sides upright with ladyfingers, their flat sides pressed inward. This creates a charming, cake-like “shell.” Then fit more ladyfingers flat across the bottom—breaking a few if needed—to form a sturdy, even base for the mousse that comes next. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect just yet; everything will come together beautifully once filled.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Mousse

Begin by blooming your gelatin: sprinkle it over the cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for five minutes. This activates it, making sure your mousse will set properly. While the gelatin is blooming, gently warm the strawberry puree in a saucepan over low heat—just enough to make it steamy, not bubbling. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s fully dissolved, then set aside to cool slightly. For the creamy base, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is absolutely smooth and fluffy. Now add your strawberry-gelatin mixture and beat until silky and thoroughly pink, basking in that delicious strawberry aroma!

Step 3: Whip the Cream and Fold

With the mousse base ready, turn your attention to the cream. With a cold bowl and beaters, whip your heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to soft peaks. This will ensure the mousse is incredibly light. Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture, working in batches and using broad, gentle strokes. It’s crucial to keep all that airy volume intact—you want the mousse to be fluffy but completely blended. Suddenly, your kitchen smells like a strawberry field in June!

Step 4: Assemble the Charlotte

Now the fun begins. Pour half of the strawberry mousse into your ladyfinger-lined pan, using a spatula to coax it right to the edges. Scatter a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries across the mousse—these gorgeous red jewels add burst-after-burst of berry flavor. Pour the rest of the mousse on top, smoothing the surface so it’s even and inviting. At this point, pop the entire pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This patience pays off, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set to perfection.

Step 5: Chill, Finish, and Enjoy

Just before serving, get creative and generous with your toppings. Whip some extra cream and pipe or dollop it over the top, then heap on plenty of fresh strawberries. The contrast of creamy white, blushing pink, and vibrant red makes your Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe absolutely irresistible. Release it from the pan for that big reveal, slice, and serve. Don’t be surprised when your guests ask for seconds (or the recipe) on the spot!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe

Garnishes

The right finishing touches elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe from “beautiful” to “breathtaking.” Extra whipped cream is a must—pipe it or swoop it on top for decadent appeal. Pile on the freshest strawberries you can find, whole or sliced, then scatter over a few mint leaves or dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. If you like, add a few curls of white chocolate for flair.

Side Dishes

This dessert is a scene-stealer, so go with lighter, refreshing sides. Serve it alongside a flute of sparkling rosé or a cup of delicate tea to balance the richness. For a festive spread, add a platter of crisp biscotti or vanilla wafers, or offer a bowl of lemon sorbet as a palate cleanser between bites. Your Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe pairs beautifully with subtle, summery flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want your Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe to really turn heads, consider individual charlottes assembled in clear glasses or mini springform pans for personalized servings. For a dramatic centerpiece, serve the charlotte on a cake stand surrounded by edible flowers. You could even add a ribbon around the ladyfinger “shell” for a celebratory look. However you present it, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the mousse and ladyfingers from absorbing any fridge odors or drying out. The flavors actually deepen by the next day, making your late-night treat even more tempting!

Freezing

This charlotte doesn’t absolutely love the freezer—the texture can become a bit icy and lose its delicate fluff. If you must freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic and then in foil, and consume within a month for best results. Thaw slowly in the fridge for optimal flavor and consistency. Just note that strawberries may darken slightly when thawed.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t necessary or recommended for Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe—this treat is meant to be enjoyed cold, allowing the mousse to remain airy and refreshing. If serving from the fridge, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing for a soft, luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe the night before my event?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance is ideal. The mousse sets firmly and the flavors meld beautifully, making for an even more delicious, sliceable dessert the next day.

What if I can’t find ladyfingers?

If ladyfingers aren’t available, you can use slices of sponge cake or even pound cake. Just be sure to cut them into strips so they line your pan neatly and absorb the strawberry goodness.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the mousse?

Yes! Thaw frozen strawberries thoroughly, then blend and strain them before making the puree. Fresh strawberries are preferred for garnishes, since they hold their shape and color best.

Is the gelatin necessary?

The gelatin is essential for the mousse layer—it provides the structure that allows the Charlotte to hold its shape for clean slicing. Without it, the mousse may not set firmly enough.

How do I prevent the ladyfingers from getting soggy?

Using fresh, crisp ladyfingers and not overfilling the charlotte are key. Also, chilling the charlotte ensures the ladyfingers absorb just enough moisture from the mousse and strawberry layers without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

If your dessert repertoire needs an instant classic, you have to try this Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe. With its dazzling layers and comforting flavors, it’s a treat that makes any day feel like a celebration. Gather your ingredients, invite a few friends, and get ready to make some seriously sweet memories!

Strawberry Shortcake Charlotte Russe Recipe