What is a Carlota dessert icebox cake?

Carlota de Limón is a Mexican no-bake dessert made by layering lime-infused cream with Maria cookies. It sets in the refrigerator, creating a cake-like texture without baking. It’s a refreshing treat loved for its simplicity and zesty flavor.

Where did Carlota dessert come from?

Though widely enjoyed in Mexico, Carlota has European origins. It evolved from classic “charlottes” and icebox cakes popularized in Europe and the U.S., but was adapted with Mexican flavors—most notably key lime juice and Maria cookies.

Why is it called an icebox cake?

The name comes from the pre-refrigerator days when people used “iceboxes” to chill foods. Icebox cakes are made by chilling layers of cream and cookies until they soften and set—no baking required, just cold storage.

How many calories are in Carlota de Limón?

A typical serving (1/8th of a 9x9-inch dish) contains roughly 250–300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Versions with added cream cheese or toppings may have more. Using low-fat milk or sugar-free cookies can reduce the count.

Carlota de Limón – Easy 5-Step Mexican Dessert You'll Love

Name: Carlota de Limón: Easy Mexican Lime Icebox Cake You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 can sweetened condensed milk; 1 can evaporated milk (or 1 cup heavy cream); 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (key limes if possible); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 pack Maria cookies (or any tea biscuit); Lime zest for garnish (optional)

Description

Carlota de Limón is a creamy, tangy Mexican lime icebox cake made with layers of Maria cookies and a sweet lime filling. No baking needed!

Ingredients

Scale

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 can evaporated milk (or 1 cup heavy cream)

1/2 cup fresh lime juice (key limes if possible)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 pack Maria cookies (or any tea biscuit)

Lime zest for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Whisk condensed milk, evaporated milk, lime juice, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Spread a thin layer of the cream mixture in a square dish.

3. Add a layer of Maria cookies, slightly overlapping.

4. Top with more cream mixture. Repeat layers.

5. Finish with cream on top and garnish. Chill 4+ hours.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight to fully soften the cookies.

You can freeze for 1 hour before serving for a firmer texture.

Prep Time: 15
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg