If you’ve ever been enchanted by the sweet and creamy layers of a classic Filipino dessert, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Filipino Mango Float Recipe. It’s a no-bake, chilled dessert that perfectly combines velvety whipped cream, luscious ripe mangoes, and crunchy graham crackers to create a heavenly treat. Each bite brings a delightful contrast of textures and tropical flavors that feel like a celebration in your mouth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a party, or simply a cozy night in, this dessert never fails to bring smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this Filipino Mango Float Recipe stand out. Each element plays a vital role: the heavy cream delivers that rich, creamy texture; condensed milk adds sweetness and depth; ripe mangoes bring fresh, fruity brightness; and graham crackers contribute a subtle crunch and a hint of warmth.
- 4 cups heavy cream (chilled overnight): This makes for perfectly whipped cream with fluffy peaks that hold the dessert together beautifully.
- ½ cup condensed milk (chilled overnight): Provides the sweet, milky backbone that balances the tartness of the mango.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure the sweetness isn’t overwhelming.
- 4 ripe mangoes (chopped or sliced): The star ingredient, ripe mangoes bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 packs graham crackers (from 1 box): Adds a lovely crumbly texture and acts as the base layers for the float.
How to Make Filipino Mango Float Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes
Start by choosing mangoes that are perfectly ripe and bursting with sweetness—this is crucial because they shine as the star of the dish. Peel the skin and slice or chop the mangoes thinly to ensure every bite is juicy and tender. Set them aside so they’re ready for layering.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Mixture
Chill your heavy cream, condensed milk, and mixing bowl before starting. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add the pinch of salt along with the condensed milk gradually. Continue whipping until the cream reaches stiff peaks with a smooth, velvety consistency. This step is where the magic of creamy sweetness happens that cradles the mangoes and crackers beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Graham Crackers
Decide if you want whole crackers or crushed crumbs depending on your texture preference. Crushing the graham crackers gives you a soft crumble, adding a delightful contrast in every bite. Use your hands or a rolling pin to break them down gently, ensuring they aren’t too fine or powdery.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grab an 8 x 8 inch glass container or a similar sized one to showcase those beautiful layers. Start by laying down a layer of graham crackers, then spread a generous layer of the whipped cream mixture, followed by a layer of mango slices. Repeat this layering once more. Finish off with a final layer of cream and mangoes on top. For extra flair, sprinkle some crushed graham cracker crumbs over the top—they add a lovely texture and make the presentation pop.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover the container tightly and refrigerate overnight. This chilling time is crucial because it softens the crackers and melds all those juicy, creamy, and crunchy layers into one harmonious dessert. If you prefer an ice cream-like texture, try freezing it overnight and allow it to thaw for about 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Filipino Mango Float Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtful garnishes turns this dessert into a showstopper. Fresh mango slices artfully arranged on top, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light Filipino snacks like pandesal or even fresh fruit platters. If you want to keep the mood festive, serve it alongside traditional Filipino hot chocolate or a refreshing calamansi juice to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Filipino Mango Float Recipe in individual clear cups or mason jars for a cute and portable treat. Layered parfait-style, it allows everyone to see those vibrant colors and textures. Or, create mini versions using cupcake liners for bite-sized indulgence at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Filipino Mango Float stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors and to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
For a frozen twist, you can freeze the Mango Float for up to 2 weeks. Before serving, just transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw for about 30 minutes so it softens slightly but still retains a refreshing, icy creaminess.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled or lightly thawed and is not designed for reheating. If you find it too firm from the freezer, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.
FAQs
Can I use canned mangoes instead of fresh ones?
While canned mangoes work in a pinch, fresh ripe mangoes provide the best flavor and texture for this Filipino Mango Float Recipe. Fresh mangoes give that natural sweetness and vibrant color that make the dessert shine.
Do I have to use heavy cream, or can I use something lighter?
Heavy cream is preferred because it whips beautifully and provides the rich, creamy texture essential for this dessert. Using lighter creams or substitutes usually results in a thinner and less stable cream layer.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and look for a vegan condensed milk alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and refreshing.
Is it necessary to chill the ingredients overnight?
Chilling the cream and condensed milk overnight is highly recommended to help them whip better and achieve the right consistency for the dessert. It makes the whipping process easier and results in fluffier cream.
How long does the Filipino Mango Float need to set before serving?
A minimum of 6 hours in the fridge is enough to let the graham crackers soften and the flavors meld, but overnight chilling yields the best texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Filipino Mango Float Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to desserts—whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence. Its combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors feels like a warm hug in dessert form, and I promise it’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. So grab those mangoes, whisk up that cream, and get ready to delight yourself and your loved ones with a classic Filipino favorite that’s irresistibly good.
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Filipino Mango Float Recipe
- Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Filipino Mango Float is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring ripe mango slices, luscious whipped cream, and crunchy graham crackers. This chilled treat is perfect for warm weather and offers a soft, pudding-like texture after refrigeration or a refreshing ice cream-like consistency when frozen.
Ingredients
Whipped Cream Mixture
- 4 cups heavy cream (chilled overnight)
- ½ cup condensed milk (chilled overnight)
- Pinch of salt
Other Ingredients
- 4 ripe mangos (peeled and sliced or chopped)
- 2 packs graham crackers (from 1 box)
Instructions
- Prepare Mangoes: Make sure your mangoes are ripe and sweet. Peel the skin and slice the mangoes thinly or chop them into your preferred size. Set aside for layering.
- Whip Cream: Using a chilled mixing bowl and beaters, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add a pinch of salt and the condensed milk while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Chilling the cream, condensed milk, and bowl in advance helps achieve better results.
- Prepare Graham Crackers: Crush the graham crackers into crumbs to your desired texture or use whole crackers for layering. Crushed crumbs create a softer, crumble texture in the dessert.
- Layer the Dessert: In an 8 x 8 inch glass container or similar large container, start by laying a layer of graham crackers followed by a layer of whipped cream, then a layer of sliced mango. Repeat the layers once more. Finish with a top layer of whipped cream and mango slices, optionally adding crushed graham crackers for decoration.
- Chill or Freeze Mango Float: Cover the container and refrigerate overnight to achieve a soft, pudding-like texture similar to bread pudding. Alternatively, freeze overnight if you prefer an ice cream-like texture. Before serving, allow to thaw for about 30 minutes or less depending on your desired consistency.
Notes
- Chilling the cream, condensed milk, and mixing bowl prior to whipping helps to achieve stiff peaks more easily.
- You can adjust the thickness of mango slices depending on your preference for texture.
- For a firmer texture, freezing is recommended; for a softer, creamy texture, refrigerate overnight.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for freshness.
- Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Filipino
