How to Make Apple Charlotte – A Classic British Dessert

 --- published by foodie Parmod.

Apple Charlotte is a classic British dessert that dates back to the 18th century, often enjoyed as a warming pudding during autumn and winter. Traditionally made using slices of bread lined around a mould and filled with stewed apples, it’s simple, hearty, and delightfully nostalgic.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make Apple Charlotte from scratch, using easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you’re new to British puddings or a seasoned baker, this timeless recipe is bound to impress.

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

6–8 slices of white bread (crusts removed)

750g cooking apples (e.g. Bramley)

75g caster sugar (adjust to taste)

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tbsp lemon juice

75g unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing and buttering bread)

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Equipment Needed

1-litre pudding basin or round ovenproof dish

Saucepan

Pastry brush

Oven

Foil or baking lid

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them in a saucepan with the lemon juice, zest, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook gently over medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and can be mashed with a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

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2. Prepare the Bread

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas mark 4.

Butter each slice of bread on one side. Cut them into rectangles or triangles to line the pudding basin. Start by pressing a circle of bread (buttered side out) into the base, then line the sides with overlapping pieces, ensuring there are no gaps.

Reserve a few slices for the lid.

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3. Assemble the Charlotte

Spoon the stewed apple mixture into the bread-lined basin, pressing it down gently. Cover the top with the remaining slices of bread to form a lid, again with the buttered side out.

Press down gently to seal the filling.

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4. Bake

Cover the basin with foil or a lid and place it on a baking tray. Bake for 30–35 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the bread.

The bread should be golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and juicy.

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5. Serve

Allow the Apple Charlotte to cool for 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a serving plate. Serve warm, ideally with custard, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Tips for the Perfect Apple Charlotte

Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread works better as it holds its shape and absorbs the butter more evenly.

Butter generously: This ensures a crisp, golden finish and prevents the bread from sticking to the dish.

Mix up the spices: Try a pinch of nutmeg or clove for a twist on the classic cinnamon flavour.

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A Bit of History

Apple Charlotte is said to be named either after Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, who had a fondness for apples, or after a 19th-century cook who created the dessert to use up stale bread. Either way, it’s stood the test of time as a cherished part of British culinary heritage.

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Why You’ll Love This Dessert

Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients already in your kitchen.

Comforting: Warm, spiced apples wrapped in buttery bread – the ultimate in homely puddings.

Impressive: Looks beautiful when turned out and served whole.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.