Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package of Maria cookies (7 oz)
- 1 can of condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Piping bag with a star tip
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Crush the Maria cookies in a food processor until they become fine crumbs.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed milk and lime juice until well blended.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper and spread a layer of the cookie crumbs evenly.
6. Pour half of the lime cream mixture over the cookie layer and spread it evenly.
7. Repeat the process with another layer of cookie crumbs and the remaining lime cream mixture.
8. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
9. In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg whites, sugar, and salt until combined.
10. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and continue whisking until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes frothy and warm.
11. Remove the bowl from the heat and continue whisking until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
12. Add the vanilla extract and continue whisking until the mixture cools down.
13. Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
14. Remove the Carlota from the pan and place it on a serving plate.
15. Pipe the meringue on top of the Carlota in a decorative pattern.
16. Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue.
17. Serve chilled.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours or overnight
5. Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 461
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 62mg
Sodium: 202mg
Carbohydrates: 67g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 56g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Maria cookies can be substituted with graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
- Lime juice can be substituted with lemon juice or orange juice.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with whipped topping or coconut cream.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with powdered sugar or honey.
Variations:
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cookie and cream layers.
- Use a different flavor of cookies, such as chocolate or vanilla.
- Top the Carlota with fresh fruit or a fruit sauce instead of meringue.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form to ensure a creamy and fluffy texture.
- Use a spatula to gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture to avoid deflating the cream.
- Be careful not to overcook the meringue, as it can become grainy or curdled.
Storage instructions:
Store the Carlota covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
This recipe is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Carlota on a decorative platter or cake stand. Garnish with fresh fruit or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
Fresh fruit, edible flowers, mint leaves, or lime zest.
Pairings:
This dessert pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
This dessert can be served as a standalone dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meringue becomes grainy or curdled, start over and make sure to whisk the mixture constantly over low heat until it becomes thick and glossy.
- If the Carlota is too soft or runny, refrigerate it for a longer period of time.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use pasteurized eggs for the meringue to avoid the risk of salmonella.
Food history:
Carlota de Limón is a traditional Mexican dessert that originated in the state of Sinaloa. It is also known as "limón pie" or "limón icebox cake".
Flavor profiles:
This dessert has a tangy and sweet flavor with a creamy and crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Carlota as a refreshing dessert after a spicy or heavy meal.
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Region: Mexican