Simple Charlotte with Applesauce and Crispy Meringue Crust

recipe | May 31, 2025

Do you dream of a perfect charlotte, with a generous layer of apples and a crispy meringue crust? This dessert harmoniously combines tender dough, aromatic apple puree, and delicate meringue — a classic recipe that brings the taste of childhood to your plate.

ingredients

Tender dough:

  • 1 pack of butter (200 g)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3 egg yolks

Apple puree:

  • 1.5 kg apples (preferably sour)
  • A little water
  • The juice of one lemon
  • Sugar (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Meringue:

  • 3 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch (or potato starch)

Preparation method

1. Soft dough:
Knead the butter with the sugar, flour, baking powder and egg yolks until you get a smooth dough. Divide it in two: put one half in the refrigerator and the other in the freezer for 2 hours.

2. Applesauce:
Cut the apples into cubes and boil them with a little water, lemon juice, sugar and cinnamon. Leave them on low heat for approx. 10 minutes, until you get a soft puree.

3. Meringue:
Beat the egg whites until stiff, gradually adding the sugar, then incorporate the starch.

4. Assembly:

  • Roll out the dough from the refrigerator into the baking dish.
  • Add an even layer of applesauce.
  • Spread the meringue over the apples.
  • Grate the frozen part of the dough on top.

5. Baking:
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 45 minutes, until the surface becomes golden and crispy.

Serving and storage tips

  • Serve the charlotte slightly warm, for a perfect crispy meringue.
  • It keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but is tastiest the day it is made.

variant

  • With crumble: Replace the meringue with a classic homemade crumble.
  • With other fruits: You can use pears or plums instead of apples.
  • Gluten-free: Replace the flour with a gluten-free mix for a version suitable for those with intolerances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, but homemade is much more flavorful and fresh.

2. Is the meringue mandatory?
No, you can omit it or replace it with a thin layer of dough.

3. What kind of apples should I use?
Sour apples are best – like Reneta or Antonovka.

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