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Carlota de Limón

A traditional Mexican icebox cake featuring layers of Maria cookies soaked in lime juice and a creamy lime filling, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 3/4 cup juice of 6 limes about 3/4 cup of lime juice
  • 2 6-ounce packages Maria cookies can substitute with graham crackers
  • 1 cup cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For garnish
  • to taste lime zest
  • to taste lime slices
  • to taste berries
  • to taste Maria cookie crumbs

Method
 

Make the Icebox Cake
  1. In a large bowl, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and lime juice. Stir well until mixed.
Prepare the Whipped Cream
  1. In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until fully combined.
Finish the Cake
  1. In a 9-inch rectangular or square dish, dip each Maria cookie into the lime mixture briefly and layer them on the bottom of the dish. Spread a layer of the cream mixture over the cookies. Repeat this process until you've used all the mixture, finishing with a cream layer on top.
Chill
  1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Before serving, top with lime zest, lime slices, and fresh berries for a vibrant touch.

Notes

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop. For extra flavor, add a dash of lime zest to the cream mixture and adjust the sugar to your liking.