Description
Carlota de Limón is a refreshing no-bake summer dessert featuring layers of lime-flavored cream and Maria cookies, topped with whipped cream and citrus garnishes. This easy-to-make treat combines the tanginess of fresh lime juice with the richness of evaporated and condensed milk, making it a perfect cool and creamy dessert to enjoy during warm weather.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk (Swap for coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Consider a homemade version for a lighter dessert)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice (Using key limes intensifies the taste)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Opt for a fresh vanilla bean if possible)
- 24 pieces Maria Cookies (Graham crackers or vanilla wafers are great alternatives)
- 1 cup Whipped Cream (Substitute with whipped coconut cream for a non-dairy version)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Adjust to your taste preference)
Optional Garnishes
- Lime zest
- Lime slices
- 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 easier.
- Blend the Filling: In a blender, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lime juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Cream: Spread a thin layer of the lime cream mixture on the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring even coverage.
- Add Cookie Layer: Arrange a layer of Maria cookies evenly over the lime cream layer to form the first cookie layer.
- Repeat Layers: Continue alternating layers of lime cream mixture and Maria cookies until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of lime cream.
- Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set and flavors to meld.
- Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whisk heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy whipped cream topping.
- Serve: Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan. Decorate the top with the freshly made whipped cream, lime zest, and any optional garnishes like lime slices, berries, or cookie crumbs for added color and flavor.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk and use whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Key limes add a more intense lime flavor compared to regular limes.
- The dessert benefits from chilling overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Maria cookies can be swapped with graham crackers or vanilla wafers as alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the whipped cream according to your taste preference.
