Carlota de Limon (Mexican Lime Icebox Cake) Recipe
Carlota de Limón is a classic Mexican lime icebox cake that combines creamy layers of lime-infused filling with crisp Maria cookies, resulting in a refreshing, no-bake dessert perfect for warm days. This easy-to-make treat blends tangy lime juice with rich cream cheese and sweetened milks, chilled until set to create a luscious, sliceable cake garnished with lime zest and slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Filling
- 3/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (half a block)
- 12 ounce can evaporated milk, full fat
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk, full fat
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Assembly
- 2 sleeves of Maria cookies (or substitute with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or digestive cookies)
- Lime zest and slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Add the lime juice, cream cheese, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract to a blender. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use a bowl and hand mixer to combine until creamy.
- Layer the cake: Spread a thin layer of the creamy lime filling at the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish or container. Arrange a layer of Maria cookies over the filling. Continue alternating layers of the creamy filling and cookies until you have laid down four layers of cookies. Pour the remaining filling evenly over the top layer of cookies.
- Chill the dessert: Cover the dish with plastic wrap, making sure not to press the wrap against the filling, and refrigerate for at least four hours. For best results, chill overnight to allow the cookies to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and slice: Remove the plastic wrap carefully, garnish the top with lime zest, and pre-slice the cake into nine even pieces. Decorate each piece with a lime slice for an attractive presentation.
- Serve: Serve the Carlota de Limón immediately after slicing for the best texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator where it will keep for a few days. Avoid freezing the dessert, as it is best enjoyed fresh and retains its texture when chilled.
Notes
- This dessert is a no-bake recipe, making it quick and easy to prepare.
- Maria cookies can be substituted with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or digestive cookies if desired.
- The dessert should be refrigerated sufficiently to allow the cookies to soften and the filling to set properly.
- Do not freeze the Carlota de Limón as freezing can affect the texture and quality of the dessert.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before blending to avoid lumps.
