Description
Delightful Carlota de Limón is a refreshing no-bake Mexican dessert perfect for summer. This light and creamy lime-flavored treat combines layers of zesty lime cream and crispy Maria cookies, chilled to perfection. Topped with homemade whipped cream and optional garnishes like lime zest and fresh berries, it is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires no oven and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lime Cream Filling
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk (can be swapped for coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk (homemade versions can lighten the dessert)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice (preferably from key limes for intensified flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
For the Layers
- 24 pieces Maria Cookies (alternatively graham crackers or vanilla wafers)
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup Whipped Cream (can substitute with whipped coconut cream for non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Lime zest
- Lime slices
- Fresh berries
- Cookie crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line the bottom and sides of a springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Blend the Filling: In a blender, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lime juice. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring the lime flavor is well integrated.
- Layer the Cream: Pour a thin layer of the blended lime cream mixture onto the bottom of the prepared pan. Immediately arrange a layer of Maria cookies evenly over the cream.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering by alternating between the lime cream mixture and Maria cookies until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cream on top.
- Chill: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whisk the heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping.
- Serve: Carefully remove the chilled Carlota de Limón from the springform pan. Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the top, then decorate with lime zest, lime slices, berries, and cookie crumbs as desired. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- Using key limes instead of regular limes intensifies the tart lime flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk and use whipped coconut cream.
- Chilling overnight allows the cookies to fully absorb the cream, softening the texture and melding flavors.
- Maria cookies can be substituted with graham crackers or vanilla wafers if preferred.
- The dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Adjust the sugar in the whipped cream to your preferred sweetness.
