The Best Mango Carlota (No-Bake Mexican
Mango Icebox Cake)
Creamy, refreshing, and bursting with fresh mango flavor, this Mango Carlota is an easy no-bake Mexican dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. Layers of sweet mango cream and crisp Maria cookies soften into a cake-like texture as they chill, creating a light and irresistible treat that’s ready with just a few simple ingredients.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10–12
Calories: Approximately 360 per serving
Ingredients
Mango Filling
- 3 large ripe mangoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Layers
- 2 (7-ounce) packages Maria cookies (about 60 cookies)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh mango slices
- Lime zest
- Whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Mango Cream
In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and lime juice.
Blend for 1–2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy.
Taste the mixture and, if desired, add a little more lime juice for a brighter flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Carlota
Spread a thin layer of the mango cream into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or a deep 9-inch square dish.
Arrange a single layer of Maria cookies over the cream, breaking cookies as needed to fit.
Spread another generous layer of mango cream over the cookies.
Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mango cream on top.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, decorate with fresh mango slices, whipped cream, lime zest, or fresh mint.
Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Tips for the Best Mango Carlota
- Choose ripe, sweet mangoes such as Ataulfo or Kent for the richest flavor.
- Chilling overnight gives the cookies the perfect soft, cake-like texture.
- Blend the filling until completely smooth for a silky consistency.
- For cleaner slices, chill the dessert overnight before cutting.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra tropical flavor.
Variations
Tropical Carlota
Add a layer of diced pineapple or toasted coconut between the cookie layers.
Mango Cheesecake Carlota
Increase the cream cheese to 12 ounces for an even richer, cheesecake-like filling.
Citrus Twist
Mix in the zest of one lime or one orange for extra brightness.
Frozen Mango Carlota
Freeze for 2–3 hours before serving for an ice cream cake-style dessert.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Maria cookies naturally soften as the dessert chills, creating the signature layered texture.
- Fresh mangoes provide the best flavor, but frozen mango chunks (thawed) can be substituted when fresh mangoes aren’t available.
- This dessert is best made a day in advance, making it perfect for parties and family gatherings.
- Serve well chilled for the creamiest texture and brightest flavor.