Paolo's Strawberry & Cream Charlotte

Three generations of birthdays. One cake. Paolo's strawberry and cream charlotte is a delicate, honest Italian dessert, savoiardi biscuits dipped in strawberry syrup, layered with vanilla whipped cream and macerated strawberries. No icing, no fuss, just soft sponge, real cream and fruit that's been given time to release its sweetness. It's the kind of cake that disappears from the table before anyone thinks to take a photo. For Paolo, this is more than a dessert. "This has been the birthday cake that my mum has made me for all my birthdays, and I am keeping the tradition alive, as my own kids always ask for this cake as their own birthday cake." Handmade in small batches and freshly frozen, it arrives ready for your own occasion, simply defrost in the fridge and serve chilled, exactly as it should be.