Homemade Mango Carlota

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🍰 Homemade Mango Carlota

The Chilled Dessert That Never Fails on Hot Days

There are desserts you enjoy, and then there are desserts that become part of your soul. Mango Carlota belongs to the latter. Sweet, tangy, creamy, and irresistibly smooth, this no-bake tropical delight has been winning hearts across generations. It’s perfect for birthdays, picnics, Sunday family lunches, or just because you need to cool off and treat yourself.

This version is a nostalgic twist on the classic Mexican Carlota de Limón, substituting mango for lime — making it the ultimate summer dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned dessert lover or new to Latin American sweets, this one’s for you.

🌿 A Brief History of Carlota

The Carlota (also known as an icebox cake) is a dessert with European roots, particularly from France, where a similar version known as Charlotte emerged. When it made its way to Mexico, creative cooks began to simplify and tropicalize it. Instead of custards and gelatin, condensed milk and citrus juice were used to bind the layers of Maria cookies. Over time, this accessible, no-bake dessert evolved into a cultural staple — and mango quickly became one of its most beloved variations.

🍋 Why Mango Carlota?

Because mango is magic. Mangoes bring sunshine to every bite. They blend beautifully with dairy, and their soft texture makes them ideal for puréeing. When chilled with layers of Maria cookies soaked in creamy goodness, the result is nothing short of divine.

🥭 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

  • 2 packages of Maria cookies (approximately 300g)
  • 1 can (397g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (354ml) evaporated milk
  • 1 package (190g) Philadelphia-style cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed (or about 2½ cups of mango pulp)
  • Optional: lime juice from 1 lime (for brightness)
  • Optional garnish: mango slices, mint leaves, or crushed cookies

🛠️ Equipment Needed

  • Blender or food processor
  • 9×9 inch (or similar) square or rectangular glass dish
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowl (optional)
  • Plastic wrap or lid for chilling

🔪 Method

1. Prepare the Mango Cream

In a blender, combine:

  • Cubed mango
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • Cream cheese
  • Optional lime juice for tang

Blend until completely smooth and velvety. Taste it — if it’s too sweet, add a touch more lime. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

2. Layer the Carlota

In your dish:

  • Begin with a thin layer of the mango cream to “anchor” the first cookies.
  • Place a layer of Maria cookies over the cream. Break some cookies as needed to fill the corners.
  • Pour a layer of mango cream over the cookies, smoothing it out evenly.
  • Repeat the layers: cookies → cream → cookies → cream, until you run out (ending with cream on top).

3. Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. The cookies will soften and absorb the creamy mango mixture, creating a cake-like texture.

4. Serve and Love

Slice the Carlota into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with fresh mango slices, mint, or a sprinkle of crushed cookies for a delightful crunch.

💛 Lovers of Mango Carlota Say…

“It reminds me of my abuelita’s kitchen. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug from my childhood.”

“We made this for my daughter’s birthday and everyone asked for seconds… and the recipe!”

“Better than any store-bought dessert. It’s sunshine in a pan.”

📝 Final Notes & Tips

  • Mango Variety Matters: Use Ataulfo, Honey, or Kent mangoes if possible. They’re sweeter and less fibrous.
  • No Mango? No Problem! This recipe works beautifully with peaches, strawberries, or guava.
  • Make it Fancy: Add a splash of rum or mango liqueur to the cream for an adult twist.
  • Make it Vegan: Substitute with plant-based condensed and evaporated milk, and use a vegan cream cheese.

🌞 In Conclusion

Mango Carlota is more than a dessert — it’s a moment of joy. A celebration of sun-ripened fruit, tradition, and togetherness. It’s the dessert you didn’t know you needed, and once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.

Because some recipes aren’t just made — they’re passed on. With love.

📌 Save this recipe. Share it with someone who loves mango. And remember:

Full recipe at First Comment 👇
Don’t forget to tag me when you make it — I love seeing your creations! 🍰🥭❤️

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