by Margaret S Garrett - Published 6 months ago

Mango Float Recipe: Healthy & Delicious

Mango floats have become increasingly popular, captivating dessert enthusiasts with their perfect blend of sweetness and creamy texture. Originating in the Philippines, this no-bake dessert traditionally features layers of ripe mango, sweetened cream, and graham crackers.

Its simplicity and rich flavor have made it a beloved treat, particularly during the hot summer months when mangoes are at their peak ripeness.

Besides being delicious, mangoes offer a range of health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and also contain vitamin A, both of which support immune function, promote healthy skin, and enhance vision.

Furthermore, mangoes are a source of fiber and antioxidants, making them a nutritious key ingredient in this delightful dessert. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it!

However, to enhance the healthfulness of this recipe, we will make some substitutions and adjustments.

Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie and lower-fat option.
Sugar: Reduce powdered sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia, allulose, or monk fruit sweetener.
Condensed Milk: Use less sweetened condensed milk or switch to unsweetened condensed milk and adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey.
Mango: Use fresh mango puree for natural sweetness and nutrients. Avoid canned mangoes in syrup.
Graham Crackers: Opt for whole grain graham crackers for added fiber. Consider a gluten-free base or make your own oat or almond flour crust.
Almonds: Almonds are a source of protein and fiber, but be mindful of portion size to manage calorie intake.

Here’s a healthier version of the recipe:

Mango Float (Healthier Version)

Serves: 9 | Serving Size: 1 piece

1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt, chilled
1 tbsp natural low-calorie sweetener like stevia, allulose, or monk fruit sweetener (adjust to taste)
1/4-1/3 cup unsweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
1 cup fresh mango puree (made from 4 mangos)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Honey or maple syrup, to taste (optional)
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (from a 9-ounce package)
4 tbsp chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans), divided

Combine Greek yogurt, natural sweetener, unsweetened condensed milk, mango puree, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Whisk until thoroughly blended. Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup if needed.
Line a 9 x 9 rectangular dish with a layer of graham cracker crumbs.
Spread a layer of the mango mixture over the graham cracker crumbs. Sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped nuts over the mango layer.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ensuring the final layer is mango mixture.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Slice into 9 squares. Enjoy your healthier mango float cake!

Each serving provides 135 calories, 6 grams of fat, 18 grams of carbohydrates, including 1 gram of fiber and 5 grams of sugar, and 3 grams of protein.