Looking for an easy and delicious dessert to wow your friends and family? This Graham with Mango Recipe brings a taste of the tropics to your table with just a few simple ingredients. This Filipino-inspired, no-bake dessert combines layers of graham crackers, sweetened cream, and fresh, juicy mangoes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a cool treat, this mango graham float is a perfect choice.
One of the best parts? No baking is required! In just a few steps, you can create a gorgeous, layered dessert that’s refreshing and packed with flavor. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into how to make this easy Graham with Mango Recipe.
Ingredients Needed for Graham with Mango Recipe
To make this delightful dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Graham Crackers: These create the layers of the dessert. Use plain graham crackers for the best results.
- Ripe Mangoes: Look for ripe, sweet mangoes for optimal flavor. The juicy, slightly tangy flavor of fresh mangoes adds the perfect contrast to the creamy layers.
- Whipped Cream: Fresh whipped cream or all-purpose cream works well. Make sure it’s slightly sweetened.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness, balancing out the flavors.
- Optional Toppings: Shredded coconut or extra graham cracker crumbs can add a nice finish on top.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Graham with Mango
Creating a refreshing and delicious mango graham dessert is easier than you might think! Follow this step-by-step guide to make this tropical, no-bake treat.
Step 1: Preparing the Mangoes and Graham Layers
To start, gather all your ingredients and prep them to ensure a smooth layering process.
- Slice the Mangoes: Start by peeling your mangoes. Carefully slice them into thin, even slices. Set the mango slices aside for layering later. It’s best to choose mangoes that are ripe but firm, as overly soft mangoes may make it difficult to create clean layers.
- Prepare the Graham Crackers: Take your graham crackers and break them into pieces that fit snugly into the bottom of your chosen serving dish or pan. Arrange them in a single layer to form a solid base for the dessert. Don’t worry if there are small gaps, as the cream mixture will fill them in.
Step 2: Creating the Cream Mixture
The cream layer is the heart of this dessert, adding both richness and sweetness to balance the mangoes.
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, pour in your cream (either whipped cream or all-purpose cream). If using heavy or whipping cream, beat it until fluffy. With all-purpose cream, you may only need to stir it to make it smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gradually add sweetened condensed milk to the cream, mixing as you go. This allows you to control the sweetness. The condensed milk also adds a thick, velvety texture to the cream. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Assembling the Mango Graham Layers
Now comes the fun part—assembling each layer of the mango graham float! The layering is essential to the dessert’s final look and taste, so follow these steps carefully.
- First Layer of Graham Crackers: Begin by placing a layer of graham crackers at the bottom of your serving dish. This base layer will soak up the cream, giving the dessert a soft, cake-like texture after chilling.
- Add the Cream Layer: Spoon a generous amount of the cream mixture over the graham crackers and spread it evenly. Make sure to cover the crackers entirely to form a thick, smooth layer.
- Layer with Mango Slices: Arrange a layer of mango slices over the cream. Spread them evenly across the layer to ensure each bite has a balanced taste of mango.
- Repeat Layers: Keep layering the ingredients in the same order—graham crackers, cream, and mango slices—until you reach the top of the dish. Be sure to finish with a final layer of cream and then arrange mango slices on top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Chilling the Dessert
After assembling, the next step is to chill your dessert. Chilling is crucial, as it allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld together.
- Refrigerate: Cover your dessert with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best texture and flavor, chill it overnight. During this time, the graham crackers will absorb the moisture from the cream, giving the dessert a soft, cake-like consistency.
- Serving: When you’re ready to serve, remove the dessert from the fridge and garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch. This extra garnish not only enhances the look but also adds a nice crunch.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mango Graham Dessert
Choose the Right Mangoes
The type and ripeness of mangoes play a huge role in the dessert’s final flavor and texture.
- Go for Ripe, Firm Mangoes: Ripe mangoes bring out the best sweetness and tropical flavor. However, if they’re too soft, they might turn mushy and make the dessert a bit messy. Choose mangoes that are ripe but still firm enough to slice cleanly.
- Avoid Fibrous Mangoes: Certain varieties of mangoes have a fibrous texture, which can interfere with the smoothness of the dessert. Opt for mangoes known for their smooth, buttery flesh for the best results.
Adjust the Sweetness of the Cream
The cream layer in this dessert is where most of the richness and sweetness come from, but it’s important to find the right balance.
- Be Mindful with Condensed Milk: Condensed milk is very sweet, so add it gradually to taste. This allows you to control the sweetness level based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can even reduce the amount of condensed milk.
- Balance with a Bit of Whipped Cream: Adding a bit of whipped cream to the mixture can lighten the overall taste and texture, giving the dessert a fluffier, less dense consistency. It’s an optional step, but it can make a difference for those who like a slightly less rich taste.
Chill for Better Texture
The chilling process is crucial for bringing the dessert together and allowing each layer to set beautifully.
- Chill Overnight for Best Results: While it’s tempting to serve the dessert right away, chilling it for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, gives the best results. This allows the graham crackers to absorb moisture from the cream, softening to a cake-like texture, while the flavors meld into a cohesive, delicious dessert.
- Cover to Avoid Absorbing Fridge Odors: To keep the dessert fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. This prevents it from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.
Use a Sharp Knife for Clean Slices
Presentation is key, especially for layered desserts.
- Slice Carefully: A sharp knife is essential to get those clean, beautiful layers in each slice. Dip the knife in warm water and wipe it dry before each cut to prevent the cream from sticking to the blade.
- Serve Cold for Best Texture: Mango graham dessert tastes best when served cold. The cool, creamy texture, combined with the fruity mango, makes each bite refreshing and satisfying.
Experiment with Toppings
A little extra garnish can enhance both the flavor and appearance of your dessert.
- Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle a bit of crushed graham cracker on top for a slight crunch and visual appeal.
- Try Shredded Coconut or Nuts: A sprinkle of shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts can add a nice contrast in texture and an extra flavor dimension. Lightly toasted coconut or almonds, for example, can provide a subtle nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with mango.
FAQ
Can I use canned mango for this graham with mango recipe?
Yes, canned mango can work, but fresh mangoes are ideal for flavor and texture. Fresh mangoes provide a natural sweetness and a firmer texture that complements the creamy layers.
How long does the mango graham dessert need to chill?
The dessert should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best to let the flavors meld together and for the graham crackers to soften.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! It can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
Can I make a sugar-free version of this dessert?
Yes, you can use sugar-free condensed milk and whipped cream alternatives. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste and texture.
What other fruits can I use in place of mangoes?
Pineapple, peaches, and strawberries make great tropical alternatives. You can even mix fruits for a multi-flavored dessert!
Conclusion
This Graham with Mango Recipe is the perfect dessert to enjoy on a hot day, as a refreshing treat after a meal, or for any special occasion. Its tropical flavors, creamy layers, and no-bake preparation make it a hit for dessert lovers of all ages. By following this guide, you’ll have an irresistible dessert ready in no time.
So, gather those graham crackers and fresh mangoes, layer them up, and enjoy this delicious mango graham float with family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits and flavors!
