Are you looking for a delightful and easy dessert recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Carlota De Limon, a refreshing and light lemon dessert, is the perfect treat for any occasion. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal baking and maximum deliciousness. Get ready to experience the zesty tang of lemon combined with the creamy indulgence of this classic Filipino dessert. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delicious, homemade dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 package (12 ounces) Marie biscuits or graham crackers
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk until well combined. This creamy base is the heart of our Carlota!
- Gradually add the lemon juice, whisking continuously to prevent curdling. The mixture will slightly thicken.
- Stir in the sugar and lemon zest. The zest adds a lovely aromatic dimension to the lemon flavor.
Building the Layers:
- Dip each Marie biscuit or graham cracker briefly into the lemon mixture, ensuring they are lightly coated but not soggy. This step is crucial for the perfect texture.
- Arrange a layer of the soaked biscuits in the bottom of a square or rectangular dish (approximately 8x8 inches or 9x13 inches).
- Pour a layer of the lemon mixture over the biscuits.
- Repeat the layers (biscuits, then lemon mixture) until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the lemon mixture.
Chill & Serve:
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Best Carlota De Limon:
- Don't over-soak the biscuits: A quick dip is all you need; otherwise, they’ll become too soft and fall apart.
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar.
- Make it ahead: This dessert tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping!
Variations:
- Add some zest: Incorporate a little orange zest along with the lemon zest for a more complex citrus flavor profile.
- Get creative with the biscuits: Try using different cookies, such as digestive biscuits or even ladyfingers, for a unique twist.
- Layer with fruit: Fresh berries or mandarin orange segments would add a delightful contrast to the creamy lemon filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on biscuit type and serving size)
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
This Carlota De Limon recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes, sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this refreshing and simple dessert, ideal for any occasion. It’s a great example of homemade cooking at its finest!