Today we are making Mexican Carlota! This recipe comes from Leslie, a Mexican friend I met here in Valencia. She has made this several times and each time we literally spooned and licked the bowl. You can't get enough of this. And the best part is that you can easily make this recipe a day in advance AND it only takes you 5 minutes. The fridge does all the work for you. So herewith, thanks to Leslie, the recipe for Mexican Carlota.
Mexican Carlota
What is Mexican Carlota?
Mexican Carlota, also known as Carlota de limón, is a popular dessert from Mexico with European influences. The dish is a no-bake cake usually made with layers of galletas María (the famous round Maria cookies) and a creamy lemon-lime filling. Although considered typically Mexican today, Carlota has its roots in European cuisine, particularly French Charlotte and other puddings that found their way to Latin America in the 19th century through colonial and cultural exchange.
The Mexican version evolved as a simplified, homely version that requires no oven - perfect for hot climates. The dessert became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, when condensed milk and other canned products became increasingly common in households. Carlota has since become a classic of Mexican cuisine and is often served at family gatherings, birthdays and holidays.
The dish reflects the way Mexican culinary traditions have taken foreign influences and adapted them to local tastes and conditions. Carlota is thus not only a fresh and accessible dessert, but also an example of Mexico's rich, hybrid culture.
Variations with other fruits
Carlota is a versatile dessert that can be easily adapted to different tastes. The classic version is made with lemon or lime, which provides a fresh, slightly sour taste. But delicious variations are also possible, such as with orange for a sweeter and softer touch. Other versions use tropical fruits such as mango or strawberry. The base remains the same: cookies and a creamy filling, but the flavor can vary according to your own preferences. Thanks to this flexibility, Carlota is loved by young and old, and suits any season or occasion. It is a dessert that leaves room for creativity. But important note on behalf of Leslie: the acid of the lemon or lime thickens the pudding, so you have to add them!
More simple desserts
Are you looking for more simple desserts? How about this snickers tiramisu or this peanut butter crème brûlée.
What you need:
9
8 limes
370 condensed milk
sweetened
400 ml unsweetened evaporated milk
In Spain you buy this as leche evaporada or evaporated milk
2 rolls of Maria cookies
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
What to do:
1
Squeeze the limes and collect the juice. This should be about 125 ml. Don't throw away the peels afterwards, you will need them later for the grater!
2
Mix the condensed milk with the evaporated milk. Pass the lime juice through a sieve and add to the mixture. Stir again until you have a thick cream. You can mix by hand or use a blender, as long as it becomes a thicker substance.
3
Take a nice bowl and start with a layer of cookies. Top this with a layer of the lime mixture followed by another layer of cookies. Continue until everything is used up and finish with cream.
4
Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight!
5
Serve the carlota with lime zest and some extra crumbled cookies.
