Homemade Mango Carlota

🥭 Homemade Mango Carlota

📖 Description

Mango Carlota is a classic no-bake dessert popular in many Latin American homes. It features layers of sweet mango cream and soft tea biscuits or Maria cookies, chilled until perfectly set. Creamy, fruity, refreshing, and easy—this dessert is ideal for warm weather, family gatherings, or when you want something impressive with minimal effort.

🧾 Ingredients

For the Mango Cream

  • 2 ripe mangoes (about 2 cups mango pulp)

  • 1 can (14 oz / 395 g) sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk, very cold)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice (enhances mango flavor)

For the Layers

  • 1 pack Maria cookies or plain tea biscuits

  • ½ cup milk (for dipping cookies)

Optional Garnish

  • Mango cubes or slices

  • Mint leaves

  • Crushed cookies

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mango Cream

    • Peel and chop the mangoes.

    • Blend mangoes, condensed milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

  2. Layer the Carlota

    • Lightly dip cookies in milk (do not soak).

    • Arrange a layer of cookies in a dish.

    • Spread a layer of mango cream over the cookies.

  3. Repeat Layers

    • Continue layering cookies and cream until ingredients are used.

    • Finish with mango cream on top.

  4. Chill

    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

  5. Serve

    • Garnish as desired and serve chilled.

📝 Notes

  • The dessert sets naturally—no gelatin required.

  • Ripe, sweet mangoes give the best flavor.

  • Can be made 1–2 days ahead.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Chill the cream ingredients before blending for better texture.

  • If mangoes are fibrous, strain the puree.

  • Use a glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers.

  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness.

🍽️ Servings

  • 6–8 servings

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 42 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Protein: 6 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 30 g

(Values may vary depending on ingredients used)

🌱 Benefits

  • No-bake & beginner-friendly

  • Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants from mango

  • Great make-ahead dessert

  • Easily customizable (low-sugar, dairy-free options available)

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen mango?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and drain excess liquid before blending.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use coconut cream and coconut condensed milk.

Q: How long does Mango Carlota last?
A: Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, for a semi-frozen ice-cream-like dessert. Thaw slightly before serving.

Q: What other fruits can I use?
A: Strawberry, pineapple, peach, or mixed tropical fruits work beautifully.

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