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If there’s one dessert that instantly brings comfort, nostalgia, and a taste of the tropics, it’s mango graham. Creamy, fruity, and delightfully easy to make, this no-bake dessert has earned its place at family gatherings, potlucks, and weekend cravings alike.
What Is Mango Graham?
Mango Graham is a popular no-bake Filipino dessert made by layering ripe mangoes, sweetened cream, and graham crackers.
Ingredients:
- Ripe mangoes: 3 to 4 large mangoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Graham crackers: 1 to 2 packs.
- All-purpose cream: 2 packs (about 500 ml total), chilled.
- Sweetened condensed milk: ½ to ¾ cup (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) for added aroma
- Whipped cream or cream cheese for a richer texture
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mangoes: Wash, peel, and slice the mangoes thinly. Set them aside. Make sure the slices are even so they layer nicely and distribute sweetness evenly.
- Make the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled all-purpose cream and condensed milk. Mix gently until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Assemble The Layers:
- In a rectangular or square dish, spread a thin layer of cream on the bottom.
- Add a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them if needed to fit the dish.
- Spread a generous layer of cream over the crackers.
- Add a layer of sliced mangoes.
- Repeat the layering process (graham crackers → cream → mangoes) until all ingredients are used. Finish with cream on top and decorate with mango slices or crushed graham crackers.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the cream, creating a cake-like texture.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled. Mango Graham can also be frozen for a firmer, ice-cream-like dessert.
Tips For The Best Mango Graham:
- Use ripe mangoes: Sweet, fragrant mangoes make a big difference in flavor. Avoid sour or underripe fruit.
- Chill the cream first: Cold cream mixes better and results in a thicker, smoother texture.
- Don’t oversoak crackers: The cream will naturally soften them while chilling—no need to dip crackers in milk.
- Layer evenly: Balanced layers ensure every bite has mango, cream, and graham.
- Make ahead: Mango graham tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Customize it: Add chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of caramel for a creative twist.
What To Serve With
Hot Drinks:
- Coffee: The bitterness of black coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of mango graham beautifully.
- Tea: Light teas like green tea, jasmine, or chamomile help cleanse the palate and keep the dessert from feeling too heavy.
Cold Drinks:
- Iced coffee or iced latte: A refreshing contrast to the creamy layers of the dessert.
- Fruit juices: Pineapple, calamansi, or orange juice complements the tropical mango flavor.
- Milk or almond milk: Especially good for kids and those who enjoy a milder pairing.
Desserts To Serve Alongside Mango Graham:
- Fresh fruit platter: Include berries, grapes, or watermelon to balance the richness of the cream.
- Chocolate-based desserts: Brownies, chocolate cake slices, or chocolate truffles provide a deeper, richer contrast.
- Light pastries: Butter cookies, shortbread, or sponge cake keep the dessert table varied without overpowering the mango graham.
Snacks And Savory Pairings:
- Cheese platter: Mild cheeses like cream cheese, mascarpone, or even cheddar pair surprisingly well.
- Salted nuts: Almonds, cashews, or peanuts provide texture and cut through the creaminess.
- Crackers or breadsticks: A neutral snack to cleanse the palate between bites.
Health Benefits
Rich In Vitamins From Mangoes:
- Vitamin C: helps boost the immune system, supports skin health, and aids in wound healing.
- Vitamin A: supports eye health and helps maintain healthy skin and tissues.
- Vitamin B6: contributes to brain function and energy metabolism.
Provides Energy:
- As an occasional afternoon treat
- When you need a quick calorie boost
Supports Digestive Health:
- Promote healthy digestion
- Prevent constipation
- Support gut health
Source Of Calcium And Protein:
- Calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
- Protein, which helps with muscle repair and satiety.
Antioxidant Properties
- Combat oxidative stress.
- Support overall cellular health.
- Reduce inflammation over time.
Final Thoughts
Mango Graham is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its creamy layers, sweet ripe mangoes, and soft graham crackers, this no-bake dessert delivers comfort, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite.
More Snack Recipes:
Ingredients
- Ripe mangoes: 3 to 4 large mangoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Graham crackers: 1 to 2 packs.
- All-purpose cream: 2 packs (about 500 ml total), chilled.
- Sweetened condensed milk: ½ to ¾ cup (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) for added aroma
- Whipped cream or cream cheese for a richer texture
Instructions
- Prepare the Mangoes: Wash, peel, and slice the mangoes thinly. Set them aside. Make sure the slices are even so they layer nicely and distribute sweetness evenly.
- Make the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled all-purpose cream and condensed milk. Mix gently until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Assemble The Layers:
- In a rectangular or square dish, spread a thin layer of cream on the bottom.
- Add a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them if needed to fit the dish.
- Spread a generous layer of cream over the crackers.
- Add a layer of sliced mangoes.
- Repeat the layering process (graham crackers → cream → mangoes) until all ingredients are used. Finish with cream on top and decorate with mango slices or crushed graham crackers.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the cream, creating a cake-like texture.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled. Mango Graham can also be frozen for a firmer, ice-cream-like dessert.
