Carlota de Limón
Make a creamy Mexican icebox cake with layers of cool lime filling and softened Maria cookies. An easy no-bake dessert filled with sweet-tart flavor!
Have you ever had a Mexican icebox cake? If not, you’re in for a treat because today we are making carlota de limón. This was one of my Mexican grandmother’s favorite desserts to make during the spring and summer. It’s easy, flavorful and doesn’t even require an oven!
With layers of Maria biscuits nestled between creamy lime filling, this simple dessert has incredible texture and flavor. After assembly, it’s chilled in the fridge overnight and then decorated with whipped cream, lime zest and lime slices.
In English, you would call this dessert a “lime icebox cake.” Fun fact: in Mexico the word “limón” is sometimes used interchangeably for lemons and limes!
There are many variations of carlota de limón, but I love the simplicity of my family’s original recipe. I hope you enjoy it, too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy ingredients. You need only a handful of inexpensive ingredients to make this icebox cake. It’s one of those throw-it-together recipes that always satisfies.
No bake. Once your cake is assembled, simply pop it into the fridge to chill overnight. No ovens and no fuss.
Cool and refreshing. Carlota de limón is bursting with zesty citrus and light, creamy flavors. Use fresh limes for the absolute best results.
Crowd-friendly. Need a low-effort dessert for your next get together? This cake is ideal for sharing. I love making it for parties or family gatherings.
This recipe is for supporting members. Upgrade to a paid membership to get access to exclusive recipes, plus stories and reflections that bring food and life together. I also plant a tree for every new subscription. 🌳