Indulge in the sweet, creamy layers of Filipino Mango Float, a no-bake dessert that’s refreshingly easy to make and wonderfully satisfying. This beloved treat brings together ripe, juicy mangoes, rich cream, and crisp graham crackers for a perfect medley of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or simply craving something light and fruity, Filipino Mango Float delivers a crowd-pleasing experience that melts in your mouth, making it a staple in Filipino celebrations and a favorite around the world.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: No baking required, making it perfect for anyone who wants a quick yet impressive dessert.
- Deliciously layered flavors: Creamy, sweet, and tangy mango meets the subtle crunch of graham crackers in every bite.
- Versatile and customizable: Easily adjusted with different fruits or toppings to suit your taste.
- Refreshingly cool: Served chilled, perfect for warm days or after big, hearty meals.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved: A universally loved dessert that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Filipino Mango Float is straightforward and essential to achieving its iconic texture and sweet, fruity flavor. These simple staples combine to create a dessert that feels indulgent but comes together easily in no time.
- Fresh ripe mangoes: The star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and bright flavor.
- All-purpose cream: Adds rich creaminess and a smooth mouthfeel that balances the fruit.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Infuses the layers with gentle sweetness and enhances the creamy texture.
- Graham crackers: Provide the perfect crunch and soak up flavors beautifully without getting mushy.
- Optional toppings: Crushed nuts or chocolate shavings add an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Variations for Filipino Mango Float
Filipino Mango Float is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Whether you want to embrace tradition or add a personal twist, this dessert welcomes creativity.
- Tropical twist: Add layers of ripe pineapple or banana for a fresh island vibe.
- Dairy alternative: Use coconut cream or almond-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- Chocolate mango float: Incorporate chocolate graham crackers or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pistachios between layers for extra texture.
- Berry boost: Add a layer of fresh strawberries or blueberries to introduce a tart contrast.
How to Make Filipino Mango Float
Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes
Peel and thinly slice ripe mangoes into even pieces. The key is to choose mangoes that are firm yet sweet, ensuring each slice contributes fresh flavor and a pleasant texture to your dessert.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose cream with sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and well blended — this creates the luscious filling that complements the mango perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
In a rectangular or square glass dish, spread a thin layer of the cream mixture at the bottom. Place a layer of graham crackers evenly on top, then a generous layer of sliced mangoes. Repeat the layering—cream, crackers, mangoes—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a creamy top layer.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the graham crackers to soften slightly without losing texture, melding all the flavors into one irresistible slice.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, add your choice of toppings—perhaps crushed nuts or a light sprinkle of grated chocolate—to add an appealing look and extra flavor dimension to your Filipino Mango Float.
Pro Tips for Making Filipino Mango Float
- Choose ripe but firm mangoes: They provide sweetness without becoming mushy after chilling.
- Don’t oversoak the graham crackers: Spread thin layers of cream to prevent sogginess.
- Chill long enough: At least 4 hours, but for best results, refrigerate overnight.
- Use fresh cream: For a richer flavor and better texture, heavy cream or all-purpose cream works best.
- Layer evenly: Consistent layers give a balanced taste in every bite and prettier presentation.
How to Serve Filipino Mango Float
Garnishes
Top your Filipino Mango Float with finely crushed graham crackers, toasted coconut flakes, or slivered almonds to add color, texture, and a flavorful finish that complements the dessert’s creamy layers.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside light, fresh fruit salads or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness with a bit of zest and warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the dessert in individual glass jars or clear cups for a charming presentation perfect for parties. You can also swirl in a bit of passion fruit or drizzle mango syrup on top for added flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Filipino Mango Float covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh fruit flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze Filipino Mango Float for up to two weeks, but note that the texture of the cream and graham crackers might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit denser.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so simply thaw frozen slices in the fridge before serving—no reheating necessary.
FAQs
Can I use canned mangoes for Filipino Mango Float?
While fresh mangoes offer the best flavor and texture, canned mangoes can be used in a pinch—just ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in your dessert.
What type of cream is best for this dessert?
All-purpose cream or heavy cream works best for a rich and smooth consistency, but you can try lighter cream or dairy-free alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.
How long should I chill Filipino Mango Float?
Chill for at least 4 hours to allow layers to set properly, though overnight chilling yields the best flavor and texture.
Can I make Filipino Mango Float vegan?
Yes! Substitute the dairy cream and condensed milk with coconut-based creams and sweetened coconut condensed milk to keep it vegan-friendly while still creamy and delicious.
Is Filipino Mango Float suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Its sweet, creamy, and fruity taste is popular with children, and it’s a great no-bake dessert option that’s easy for families to prepare together.
Final Thoughts
Filipino Mango Float is more than just a dessert—it’s a delightful experience combining ease, freshness, and rich indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this layered mango dessert promises to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Give it a try, and prepare to have your heart stolen by its melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
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Filipino Mango Float
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Filipino Mango Float is a no-bake layered dessert featuring ripe mangoes, rich creamy filling made from all-purpose cream and sweetened condensed milk, and crisp graham crackers. This refreshing and easy-to-make dessert offers a delightful medley of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures, perfect for warm days or celebrations. It is family-friendly, versatile, and can be customized with various fruits and toppings to suit any preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh ripe mangoes – 3 to 4 medium-sized, peeled and thinly sliced
- All-purpose cream – 2 cups
- Sweetened condensed milk – 1 can (around 14 oz)
- Graham crackers – 2 packs (about 200 grams)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed nuts (e.g., toasted almonds or pistachios) – 1/4 cup
- Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate – 2 tbsp
- Toasted coconut flakes – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Mangoes: Peel and thinly slice ripe mangoes into even pieces. Choose mangoes that are firm yet sweet to ensure fresh flavor and pleasant texture in each slice.
- Mix the Creamy Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose cream with sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the luscious filling complementing the mango.
- Assemble the Layers: In a rectangular or square glass dish, spread a thin layer of the cream mixture at the bottom. Place a layer of graham crackers evenly on top, then a generous layer of sliced mangoes. Repeat the layering – cream, crackers, mangoes – until all ingredients are used, finishing with a creamy top layer.
- Chill Until Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften slightly while maintaining some crunch, melding all the flavors together.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add your choice of toppings such as crushed nuts or grated chocolate to enhance the appearance and add an extra flavor dimension to your Filipino Mango Float.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm mangoes to avoid mushy texture after chilling.
- Do not oversoak the graham crackers; spread thin layers of cream to prevent sogginess.
- Chill the dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Use fresh all-purpose or heavy cream for richer flavor and smoother consistency.
- Layer evenly to achieve balanced taste and attractive presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg