Filipino Mango Float is a classic no-bake dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes. Layered with chilled whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and graham crackers, it’s a super easy treat that’s perfect for warm weather and family gatherings. Whether chilled for a soft pudding-like texture or frozen into an ice cream cake, it’s always a refreshing hit.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 cups heavy cream, chilled overnight

• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk, chilled overnight

• Pinch of salt

• 4 ripe mangoes, thinly sliced or chopped

• 2 packs graham crackers (from 1 box)

Directions

1. Prepare Mangoes: Peel and slice or chop ripe mangoes. Set aside.

2. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add salt and condensed milk gradually, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

3. Crush Crackers: Lightly crush graham crackers for a crumb texture or leave whole for firmer layers.

4. Layer the Dessert: In an 8×8 inch glass dish, begin with a layer of graham crackers, followed by whipped cream and sliced mangoes. Repeat layers once. Finish with cream and top with mango and cracker crumbs for garnish.

5. Chill or Freeze:

   • Chill: Refrigerate overnight for a soft, pudding-like texture.

   • Freeze: Freeze overnight for an ice cream cake texture. Let sit for 30 minutes before serving if frozen.

Nutrients

Yield: 10 servings

• Calories: 423 kcal

• Fat: 36g

• Saturated Fat: 23g

• Carbohydrates: 24g

• Sugar: 22g

• Protein: 5g

• Cholesterol: 113mg

• Sodium: 51mg

• Vitamin C: 31mg

• Calcium: 116mg

• Potassium: 287mg

A Beloved Dessert With Tropical Roots

Mango Float, sometimes referred to as Crema de Mangga, is a Filipino adaptation of the traditional icebox cake. It gained massive popularity in the late 20th century due to its simplicity and the widespread availability of sweet, ripe mangoes in the Philippines. Philippine mangoes, particularly Carabao mangoes, are prized for their fragrant aroma, vibrant yellow flesh, and intense sweetness—perfect for balancing the richness of the cream and milk in the recipe.

This dessert has become a staple at Filipino gatherings, from Noche Buena (Christmas Eve dinner) to summer fiestas and birthday parties. What makes it even more special is how easy it is to prepare without any cooking or baking required, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Flavor and Texture Harmony

The beauty of Mango Float lies in its contrast of textures and harmonious flavor profile. The graham crackers soften into cake-like layers after absorbing moisture from the whipped cream mixture. Meanwhile, the cream—light, airy, and subtly sweet—acts as a luscious cushion for the slices of mango.

The mango itself is the star of the show. Its floral, honeyed notes shine through every bite, adding freshness to the rich cream. This dessert is sweet but not cloying, light yet satisfying, and delightfully cool, especially when served straight from the fridge or freezer.

No-Bake, No-Stress Dessert for Any Occasion

One of the biggest reasons for this dessert’s popularity is its no-bake nature. You don’t need an oven, stovetop, or any fancy kitchen gadgets. All it requires is a mixing bowl, a whisk (or electric mixer), a dish, and a refrigerator or freezer.

Because of its make-ahead convenience, Mango Float is perfect for entertaining. You can assemble it the night before and let it chill overnight. This gives the layers time to meld, resulting in a soft, cake-like consistency. Alternatively, freezing it creates a firmer, sliceable version that resembles an ice cream cake—a wonderful option during especially warm days.

Versatility and Creative Variations

Another reason to love Mango Float is its customizability. While the classic version uses graham crackers, some variations include:

• Ladyfingers or digestive biscuits as alternative base layers

• Chocolate graham crackers for a deeper, richer flavor

• Other fruits like bananas, peaches, or lychees for added layers of flavor

• Toppings such as crushed cashews, toasted coconut, or even shaved white chocolate for texture and flair

You can also make it more indulgent by folding in a touch of vanilla extract or a dash of rum to the cream. This recipe is easily scalable—double the ingredients for a larger crowd or use smaller containers for individual servings.

Healthier Tweaks and Dietary Adjustments

While Mango Float is undoubtedly indulgent, there are ways to lighten it up without compromising on flavor:

• Use reduced-fat cream or coconut cream for a lighter fat profile

• Opt for whole wheat graham crackers or high-fiber biscuits

• Substitute sweetened condensed milk with sweetened almond milk or a blend of yogurt and honey for a healthier sweetness

• Skip the added sugar entirely if your mangoes are sweet enough on their own

These simple tweaks allow you to tailor the dessert to dietary preferences or health goals while still delivering a creamy, fruity delight.

Perfect for the Warm Weather

Few desserts are as cooling and refreshing as Mango Float, especially during hot and humid weather. Its chilled or frozen presentation makes it the ideal treat during summer months, tropical getaways, or backyard barbecues. Unlike heavier baked desserts, Mango Float feels light and refreshing, even after a big meal.

An Edible Piece of Nostalgia

For many Filipinos, Mango Float is more than just dessert—it’s a memory on a plate. It’s the taste of family reunions, lazy summer afternoons, and special holidays. Passed down through generations, this dish evokes nostalgia and comfort. And because it’s so easy to make, it’s often one of the first desserts taught to kids learning their way around the kitchen.

The combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility means it stays popular not just in the Philippines but also among Filipino communities worldwide, who use it to reconnect with their roots and share their culture with others.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are dozens of reasons to fall in love with Filipino Mango Float:

It’s incredibly easy—a true no-fail recipe
It requires no baking or fancy tools
It highlights fresh, seasonal mangoes
It’s great for make-ahead entertaining
It works as a chilled pudding or frozen cake
It’s customizable for flavor and dietary needs
It’s kid- and adult-approved
It brings together texture, freshness, and creamy indulgence in every bite

Once you try it, it’s bound to become a go-to dessert for hot days, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a sweet slice of the tropics.

Conclusion

Filipino Mango Float is the perfect fusion of flavor, ease, and nostalgia. It’s the kind of dessert that requires minimal ingredients, no oven, and only a little patience while it chills. But the payoff is immense: a luscious, creamy, mango-studded treat that transports you to warm beaches, family kitchens, and festive gatherings.

Whether you’re new to Filipino desserts or revisiting a childhood favorite, this Mango Float recipe delivers comfort, elegance, and tropical flair in every mouthful. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, it’s a dessert that deserves a permanent place in your summer recipe collection.