Description
Imagine slicing into a chilled, no-bake dessert with layers of fluffy sweetened cream, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and juicy, ripe mangoes. Sounds like a tropical dream, right? That’s exactly what Mango Float delivers! With a 4.5-star rating from 10 reviews, this popular Filipino dessert is an easy, no-bake treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet family indulgence.
Ingredients
This mango float uses just five ingredients to create its creamy, fruity layers. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Heavy Cream (2 cups): Forms the fluffy, whipped base.
- Why it matters: Creates a rich, airy texture that holds the layers together.
- Substitution: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version with extra tropical flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz can): Sweetens and thickens the cream.
- Why it matters: Adds creamy sweetness and a smooth consistency.
- Substitution: Use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative for vegan diets.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp): Enhances the cream’s flavor.
- Why it matters: Adds a warm, subtle depth to the sweetness.
- Substitution: Use almond extract or skip for a simpler flavor.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 1/2 cups, from a 9-oz package): Create crunchy layers.
- Why it matters: Soften in the fridge to form a cake-like texture.
- Substitution: Use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
- Ripe Mangoes (3, diced): The star of the dessert with juicy, tropical flavor.
- Why it matters: Add vibrant sweetness and a fresh, fruity contrast.
- Substitution: Use peaches or canned mangoes (drained) if fresh mangoes aren’t available.
Pro Tip: Choose ripe, juicy mangoes (soft to the touch with a sweet aroma) for the best flavor, and chill the cream and bowl before whipping for faster results.
Instructions
- Whip the Cream Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups heavy cream, one 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
- Beat with a hand mixer until the mixture doubles in volume and forms soft peaks (about 4 minutes).
- Tip: Chill the bowl and beaters beforehand for faster whipping and fluffier cream.
- Layer the Base:
- In an 8-inch square baking dish, spread a scant 2 cups of the whipped cream mixture to form a thin, even layer.
- Tip: Use an offset spatula to smooth the cream for neat layers.
- Add Graham Cracker Crumbs:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs evenly over the cream layer.
- Tip: Spread crumbs thinly to ensure they soften properly without being too dense.
- Add Mangoes:
- Scatter a third of the diced mangoes (from 3 ripe mangoes) evenly over the crumbs.
- Tip: Dice mangoes into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution and easy slicing.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Repeat the layering process two more times: cream (scant 2 cups), 1/2 cup crumbs, then a third of the mangoes, for a total of 9 layers (3 sets of cream, crumbs, mangoes, ending with mangoes).
- Tip: Press each layer gently to ensure they stick together, but don’t compact too much.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to soften the graham crackers and meld the flavors.
- Slice into 16 squares and serve chilled.
- Health Benefit: Mangoes offer vitamin C and antioxidants, making this a delicious way to enjoy fruit in a treat!