Carlota of Lime (Mexican Icebox Cake)

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Update : February 28, 2026

Delicious Carlota of Lime Mexican Icebox Cake with lime and cream

Why Make This Recipe

Carlota of Lime is a delightful Mexican dessert that combines the tangy taste of lime with a creamy texture. It is perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing but not too heavy. This icebox cake is easy to make and doesn’t require baking, making it a great option for beginners or anyone looking for a quick and delicious treat. With its simple ingredients and bright flavors, Carlota of Lime is sure to impress your family and friends.

How to Make Carlota of Lime

Ingredients

  • 1 (12-ounces) can evaporated milk
  • 1 (14-ounces) can sweetened condensed milk
  • Juice of 6 limes (about 3/4 cup of lime juice)
  • 2 (6-ounces) packages Maria cookies (you can use graham crackers also)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Lime zest
  • Lime slices
  • Berries
  • Maria cookie crumbs

Directions

Make the Icebox Cake:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and lime juice until well combined.
  2. Dip each Maria cookie into the milk mixture briefly to soften, then layer them in a 9×13 inch dish.
  3. After laying down one layer of cookies, pour some of the lime mixture over them. Repeat until you have about three layers of cookies and lime mixture.

Prepare the Whipped Cream:

  1. In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Continue whipping until you reach stiff peaks.

Finish the Cake:

  1. Spread a thick layer of whipped cream over the top of the cake.
  2. Garnish with lime zest, lime slices, berries, and some crushed Maria cookies for decoration.
  3. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

How to Serve Carlota of Lime

Serve Carlota of Lime chilled directly from the refrigerator. Cut it into squares or slices and enjoy it as a light dessert. It’s great on its own, but you can also serve it with extra berries or a sprinkle of lime zest on top for added flavor and color.

How to Store Carlota of Lime

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the dessert to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.

Tips to Make Carlota of Lime

  • For a stronger lime flavor, you can add more lime juice or zest.
  • If you prefer a sweeter dessert, adjust the amount of sugar in the whipped cream to suit your taste.
  • Be careful not to soak the cookies for too long, as they can become too mushy. A quick dip is usually enough for the right texture.

Variation

You can try adding different fruits like strawberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity twist. Alternatively, using flavored cookies can add a different dimension to your Carlota.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cookies instead of Maria cookies?
Yes, you can use graham crackers or any other cookies you like. Just make sure they can hold up when dipped in the milk mixture.

2. How long can I keep Carlota of Lime in the fridge?
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh within the first couple of days.

3. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk with dairy-free versions, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for whipped topping.

Enjoy making this refreshing and easy dessert!

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Carlota of Lime

A delightful Mexican dessert combining tangy lime and creamy texture, perfect for hot days.

  • Total Time: 240 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • Juice of 6 limes (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 (6-ounce) packages Maria cookies
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cold heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Lime zest
  • Lime slices
  • Berries
  • Maria cookie crumbs

Instructions

  1. Mix the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and lime juice until well combined.
  2. Dip each Maria cookie into the milk mixture briefly to soften, then layer them in a 9×13 inch dish.
  3. Pour some of the lime mixture over the first layer of cookies. Repeat until you have about three layers.
  4. Whip the cold heavy cream in another bowl until soft peaks form.
  5. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
  6. Spread a thick layer of whipped cream over the top of the cake.
  7. Garnish with lime zest, lime slices, berries, and crushed Maria cookies.
  8. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 240 minutes or overnight.

Notes

For a stronger lime flavor, add more lime juice or zest. Be careful not to soak the cookies for too long.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: dessert, no bake, lime, refreshing, Mexican dessert

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