Carlota de Limón (No-Bake Lime Icebox Cake) Recipe
Carlota de Limón is a refreshing no-bake lime icebox cake featuring layers of creamy lime filling and crisp Maria cookies. This easy-to-make dessert combines whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lime juice, resulting in a tangy, sweet cake that sets perfectly in the refrigerator for a cool, luscious treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lime Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake Assembly
- 1 package (about 14 ounces) Maria cookies (or any plain sweet cookies)
- Additional lime slices (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lime Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread a thin layer of the lime cream mixture onto the bottom of a rectangular or square dish. Briefly dip each Maria cookie in lime juice (or milk) to soften slightly, then layer them over the cream. Repeat alternating layers of lime cream and cookies, finishing with a layer of lime cream on top.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the cake to set and the flavors to meld. For best results, chill overnight.
- Serve: Once set, slice the Carlota into portions. Garnish with additional lime slices or lime zest if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing no-bake dessert.
Notes
- For best texture, chill the cake overnight to allow the cookies to soften fully and the flavors to develop.
- You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Use fresh lime zest for the best citrus aroma.
- Dipping cookies briefly prevents them from becoming too soggy in the final dessert.
- This dessert is perfect for warm weather as it is served chilled and does not require baking.
Keywords: Carlota de Limón, Lime Icebox Cake, No-Bake Dessert, Mexican Dessert, Lime Cake, Maria Cookies, Refreshing Dessert
