Mango Carlota is a refreshing, no-bake Mexican dessert that layers sweet, creamy mango filling with crisp Maria cookies, creating a luscious icebox cake. This tropical twist on the classic Carlota de Limón brings together the bright, juicy flavor of mango with a velvety, citrus-infused cream. Perfect for warm days, celebrations, or when you need a quick and easy dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better.
Ingredients
For the Mango Filling
- 12 oz ripe mango, peeled and diced
- ⅓ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Layers
- 12 ladyfingers, halved
- 4.9 oz sleeves of Maria cookies (about 2 packs)
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Fresh mango slices
- Lime zest
- Crushed Maria cookies
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Filling
- In a blender, combine the diced mango and lime juice. Blend on high speed until completely smooth, about 45 seconds to 1 minute. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a separate bowl.
- Swap the whisk for the paddle attachment. In the same mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Beat until fully incorporated, about 30 seconds.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then pour in the mango-lime puree. Gradually increase the speed to medium and beat for 1 full minute.
- Using a silicone spatula, carefully fold the whipped cream into the mango-cream cheese mixture. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Carlota
- Arrange the ladyfinger halves around the edge of a 9-inch springform pan, with the sugared sides facing outward.
- Lay down a layer of Maria cookies at the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully spread 1 cup of mango filling over the cookies, smoothing it out with a spoon or offset spatula.
- Repeat the layering process until you have 4 layers of Maria cookies, finishing with the remaining mango filling.
- Cover the top with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set.
Step 3: Chill & Serve
- The Carlota will be soft-set, but for a firmer slice, freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Garnish with whipped cream, fresh mango slices, lime zest, and crushed Maria cookies.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Easy: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Tropical & Refreshing: The sweet mango and zesty lime create a bright, balanced flavor.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Layers of cookies and creamy filling make for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy this Mango Carlota, a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! 🍰🥭