This holiday season, Jacobs is bringing a little extra magic to South African tables with a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The Jacobs Festive Cherry & Chocolate Coffee Charlotte is a stunning creation that marries the bold, comforting aroma of Jacobs coffee with indulgent chocolate and the bright sweetness of seasonal cherries.
This isn’t just any dessert, it’s the kind that makes people lean in a little closer, that sparks conversation and creates those warm, lingering moments we all treasure during the holidays. A modern take on a timeless classic, this Charlotte is all about bringing people together and celebrating the joy of the season. With layers of rich Jacobs coffee-soaked biscuits, velvety mascarpone cream, and bursts of juicy cherries, every spoonful is a delightful balance of comfort and freshness.
Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner, ringing in the New Year, or simply want to add a touch of something special to your gatherings, this Charlotte is here to steal the show and remind us all why coffee and good company are the heart of any celebration.
THE RECIPE:
Festive Cherry & Chocolate Coffee Charlotte
Serves: 6–8
Perfect for: Christmas dessert / festive tables
Ingredients:
A little oil for the mould
175g Boudoir finger biscuits
2–3 tbsp brandy
1 small cup of strong Jacobs coffee
300ml cream
200g mascarpone cheese
2 tbsp cocoa powder (plus extra for dusting)
2 tbsp powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
300g cherries, pitted and halved (plus 3 cherries for garnish)
100g dark chocolate, melted
Instructions:
Lightly brush a deep bowl with oil and line the base with baking paper. Set aside 5 biscuits. Mix the brandy and Jacobs coffee together, then quickly dip the remaining biscuits in the mixture—just a brief soak. Line your bowl with halved biscuits at the bottom and stand whole biscuits around the edges, sweet side facing out.
Whip the cream until it’s beautifully stiff, then gently fold in the mascarpone. Divide this dreamy mixture into two bowls. Into one, mix the cocoa powder and powdered sugar. Into the other, fold in those gorgeous halved cherries.
Now for the fun part, alternate spoonfuls of each cream mixture into your biscuit-lined bowl, creating lovely layers. Top with any leftover soaked biscuits and press down gently but firmly. Pop it in the fridge for several hours, or even better, overnight, so everything sets perfectly.
When you’re ready to serve, carefully invert it onto your prettiest plate. Give it a generous dusting of cocoa and powdered sugar, crown it with fresh cherries, and finish with a dramatic drizzle of melted dark chocolate. Stand back and admire your work before slicing in!
Whether it’s shared at a long, laughter-filled family lunch, proudly displayed on your festive table, or gifted to someone you hold dear, the Jacobs Festive Cherry & Chocolate Coffee Charlotte turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Infused with the bold, distinctive flavour of Jacobs coffee, it’s more than just dessert, it’s a celebration of connection, warmth, and the simple joy of being together during the most wonderful time of the year.