Scald milk. Sprinkle gelatin over cold water to soften. Mix together egg yolks, sugar, and salt. Pour hot milk, a little at a time, over the yolk mixture, beating hard all the time. Cook over a low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat, add gelatin, and stir until dissolved. Stir in lemon rind and juice, then refrigerate until cold but not set. Line a 1-quart mold or bowl with ladyfingers, placing some on the bottom and the remainder upright around the sides. Some of the ladyfingers may have to be cut to make them fit. Beat heavy cream until it holds a shape, fold into gelatin mixture gently, and pour into mold. Chill 2 to 3 hours or until firm. To serve, unmold on a crystal or silver platter or cake stand.
The origin of the Charlotte Russe is fairly obscure, but it is generally thought to have been the creation of the famous French chef Carême. It was a popular dessert in the 1800s and often served at banquets at the White House including for Nellie Grant's wedding reception.
1 cup milk
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water
1/4 cup lemon juice
4 egg yolks
6 ladyfingers, split
1 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
Grated rind of 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt