No-Bake Mango Float Cake

Name: No-Bake Mango Float Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 4 ripe mangoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 3 cups heavy cream, chilled; ½ can (7 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 64 pieces Biscoff cookies (or graham crackers)

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on February 19, 2025

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A Sweet Reminder of Sun-Soaked Days

Mangoes have always been more than just a fruit to me—they are a symbol of summer, happiness, and childhood memories. Growing up, I would eagerly wait for mango season, knowing that our kitchen would soon be filled with the rich aroma of ripe mangoes. My grandmother had a way of turning simple ingredients into magical desserts, and her mango float was always the highlight of the season.

There was something special about how she layered the cookies, whipped the cream to perfection, and carefully arranged the slices of golden mango. She would always let it chill overnight, making the anticipation even greater. By the next day, the cookies had softened, the cream had thickened, and the flavors had melded into a dessert so divine, it felt like a taste of sunshine.

Now, whenever I make mango float, I’m instantly transported back to those summer afternoons spent with family, sharing laughter and stories over a chilled slice of this creamy, fruity masterpiece. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or trying it for the first time, this no-bake mango float is guaranteed to become a favorite.

What is Mango Float?

Mango float, also known as mango refrigerator cake, is a classic Filipino dessert made with layers of ripe mangoes, sweetened cream, and graham crackers or Biscoff cookies. The dessert requires no baking—just simple layering and chilling, making it one of the easiest yet most satisfying treats you can make.

Overnight, the cookies absorb moisture from the cream, creating a soft, cake-like texture that melts in your mouth. The combination of sweet mangoes, fluffy whipped cream, and delicate cookies makes this dessert truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required – Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Simple and quick – Just layer, chill, and enjoy.
Rich and creamy – The combination of whipped cream and mangoes is smooth and indulgent.
Perfect for gatherings – A crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time.
Versatile – You can adjust the sweetness, add toppings, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.

Tropical Mango Delight

A Taste of Summer in Every Bite

Indulge in the luscious flavors of this Tropical Mango Delight, a no-bake dessert that brings the essence of summer to your table. With layers of sweet mangoes, creamy filling, and crisp cookies, this treat is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for warm days or any time you’re craving a taste of the tropics.

Ingredients

Fresh Mangoes: 4 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
Heavy Cream: 3 cups, chilled
Sweetened Condensed Milk: ½ can (approximately 7 ounces)
Biscoff Cookies: 64 pieces (about 2 packs)

Directions

Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Layers:
- First Layer: Arrange a single layer of Biscoff cookies at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Second Layer: Spread a portion of the cream mixture over the cookies.
- Third Layer: Evenly distribute a layer of diced mangoes over the cream.
Repeat Layers: Continue layering cookies, cream, and mangoes until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cream on top.
Chill the Dessert: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften.
Serve: Garnish with additional mango slices or crushed cookies if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the tropical flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Secrets to the Best Mango Float

1. Use the Best Mangoes

The star of this dessert is the mango, so make sure to use ripe, sweet varieties like:

Carabao Mangoes (Philippine Mangoes) – Sweet, buttery, and fragrant.
Ataulfo Mangoes – Smooth and less fibrous, perfect for desserts.
Kent Mangoes – Juicy with a rich flavor.

Avoid unripe or overly fibrous mangoes, as they can affect the texture and taste of the dessert.

2. Chill the Cream Before Whipping

To achieve a light and fluffy texture, chill your heavy cream before whipping. Cold cream holds air better, making the dessert more stable. If you’re in a warm climate, you can also chill the mixing bowl for better results.

3. Choose the Right Cookies

The cookies act as the base of the dessert and soften over time to create a cake-like consistency. You can use:

Graham Crackers – Traditional choice, slightly sweet and sturdy.
Biscoff Cookies – Adds a caramelized flavor.
Ladyfingers – Softer and more delicate.

4. Let It Chill Overnight

While you can eat mango float after 4 hours of chilling, the best texture develops overnight. This allows the flavors to fully combine, resulting in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

5. Add Extra Layers for More Flavor

For a richer mango float, add:

A drizzle of condensed milk between layers for extra sweetness.
Shredded coconut or crushed nuts for added texture.
A layer of mango puree for an even fruitier taste.

Creative Variations to Try

If you love experimenting, here are a few delicious twists on the traditional mango float:

Chocolate Mango Float – Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cocoa powder between the cream layers.
Berry Mango Float – Mix in strawberries or blueberries for a tangy contrast.
Coffee Mango Float – Dip the cookies in espresso before layering for a tiramisu-style version.
Coconut Mango Float – Replace half the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist.
Vegan Mango Float – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cookies for a plant-based version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Mango Float in Advance?

Yes! Mango float actually tastes better when made ahead of time. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.

2. How Long Does Mango Float Last in the Fridge?

Mango float can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the cookies may become too soft, and the cream might start to separate.

3. Can I Freeze Mango Float?

Yes! Freezing mango float turns it into a mango icebox cake. Simply cover it well and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

4. Can I Use Canned Mango Instead of Fresh?

Fresh mangoes are best, but if they’re not available, you can use canned mango slices. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the dessert.

5. What If I Don’t Have an Electric Mixer?

You can whip cream by hand using a whisk, but it will take longer. To make it easier, place the bowl over ice while whipping.

6. Can I Use a Different Type of Sweetener?

Yes! If you prefer a less sweet version, use:

Honey or maple syrup instead of condensed milk.
Stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free option.

7. How Can I Make It More Firm?

If you want a more stable mango float, add 1-2 teaspoons of gelatin (dissolved in warm water) to the whipped cream before layering.

8. Can I Add Other Fruits?

Absolutely! Bananas, peaches, or passion fruit work beautifully in mango float. Just make sure they complement the mango’s natural sweetness.

Conclusion

Mango float is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and memories. With its creamy layers, sweet mangoes, and soft cookies, this no-bake treat is perfect for hot summer days or any time you want a taste of something tropical.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or a special occasion, mango float is sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a gourmet dessert without the hassle.

So grab some ripe mangoes, whip up the cream, and let this mango float transport you to a place where every bite feels like pure sunshine.