This Graham Mango Float recipe is my all-time favorite dessert to make during hot summer days—or honestly, anytime I want something sweet without turning on the oven. The first time I made it was after returning from a trip to the Philippines, where this easy mango dessert was everywhere—from birthday parties to street-side family gatherings. One bite of the creamy, chilled layers filled with ripe mangoes and graham crackers instantly made me a believer.
The texture is what really won me over: soft graham crackers that almost melt into the smooth layers of cream, balanced perfectly with the sweet, juicy mango slices. It’s a no-bake mango dessert that takes just 20 minutes to assemble and only gets better the longer it chills. Whether you’re new to Filipino desserts or just love tropical desserts, this is one treat that delivers.
If you’ve been searching for the best Graham Mango Float recipe or how to make a Filipino mango float at home, this one’s for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lusciously creamy and fruity layers in every bite
- Only 6 basic ingredients and no baking required
- Ready in 20 minutes, plus chill time
- Perfect for summer parties or simple cravings
- Beginner-friendly and easily customizable
- Classic Filipino dessert with wide appeal
A Sweet History of the Mango Float
The Graham Mango Float has its roots in the Filipino ref cake tradition. “Ref” is short for refrigerator, and that’s exactly where this cake is made. While inspired by Western icebox cakes, Filipinos added their tropical twist by using local mangoes and graham crackers. Today, it’s one of the most beloved no-bake Filipino desserts and often called chilled mango cake or mango graham cake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 pieces Graham crackers (honey or plain)
- 1 tablespoon crushed graham (for topping)
- 2 cups ripe mangoes, thinly sliced (choose carabao or Ataulfo mangoes for best flavor)
- 1 cup all-purpose cream or Cool Whip
- 3/4 cup condensed milk
Optional Add-ins
- Cream cheese (1/4 cup) – makes a richer version
- Coconut flakes – adds a tropical texture
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – enhances the flavor of the cream
- Chia seeds or basil seeds – adds a unique bite and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Layer the Base
In a rectangular dish, lay down the first layer of 8–10 graham crackers. You may break them to fit corners neatly.
Make the Cream Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose cream and condensed milk. Stir until completely blended.
Tip: Chill the cream beforehand for better consistency.
Spread the Cream
Generously spoon and spread the cream mixture over the graham cracker layer, covering the surface fully.
Add the Mango Slices
Evenly layer the thin mango slices on top of the cream.
Tip: Slightly overlap slices for a more intense mango flavor in every bite.
Repeat Layers
Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the cream mixture, and more mangoes. Repeat as needed, ending with a top layer of cream and mangoes.
Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the top with crushed graham and a few decorative mango slices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use ripe mangoes with a deep yellow-orange color for natural sweetness.
- Don’t skip the chill time—this dessert tastes better the next day.
- Slice mangoes thinly and evenly for consistent layering.
- Use a deep dish if you plan on making 3+ layers.
- For a firmer cake, use a 1:1 ratio of cream and condensed milk.
Delicious Variations
Cream Cheese Mango Float
Blend softened cream cheese into the cream mixture for a cheesecake-like richness.
Choco Mango Float
Use chocolate graham crackers and drizzle chocolate syrup over the layers.
Coconut Mango Float
Add shredded coconut between layers and garnish with toasted coconut flakes for extra tropical flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a sprig of mint and extra mango on the side.
- Pair with a glass of Avocado Ice Cream for a tropical dessert plate.
- Serve alongside Booty Dip for a creamy dessert spread.
- Great after spicy meals like Coconut Shrimp Alfredo.
- Pair with iced tea, mango juice, or coconut water.
Nutritional Information (per serving estimate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 105mg |
| Sugar | 25g |
Note: Values may vary with added ingredients.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 weeks, but texture may change.
Reheat: Not recommended. Serve cold or thaw if frozen.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Graham Mango Float, try these similar treats:
- Biscoff Banana Pudding – indulgent and creamy
- Banana Pudding Dip – great for tropical lovers
- Oreo Dump Cake – chocolatey no-bake fun
Conclusion
Now you know how to make a classic Graham Mango Float—the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity. Whether it’s your first time or your 50th, this easy mango dessert is always a crowd-pleaser. Have your own twist on this Filipino mango float? Share it in the comments, and don’t forget to pin or bookmark for later.
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FAQs
What is mango graham made of?
Mango graham, or Graham Mango Float, is made with graham crackers, sweetened cream, and ripe mango slices layered and chilled.
Are mango graham and mango float the same?
Yes, they’re different names for the same dessert, commonly called Filipino mango float.
What is another name for mango graham?
It’s also known as chilled mango cake or ref cake in the Philippines.
How do you make mango graham cream cheese?
Just blend softened cream cheese into the cream-condensed milk mixture for a richer, tangier version.
Graham Mango Float – Easy 5-Step Tropical Dessert Loved by All
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chill time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Graham Mango Float is a creamy, no-bake Filipino dessert layered with sweet mangoes, whipped cream, and graham crackers. Easy to prepare and perfect for hot weather!
Ingredients
20 pieces Graham crackers
1 tablespoon crushed graham (for topping)
2 cups ripe mangoes, thinly sliced
1 cup all-purpose cream or Cool Whip
3/4 cup condensed milk
Instructions
1. In a rectangular dish, arrange 8 to 10 pieces of graham crackers. Set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine the cream and condensed milk. Mix well.
3. Spread the cream mixture over the graham crackers.
4. Layer the sliced mangoes evenly over the cream.
5. Repeat the process: graham crackers, cream, mangoes until you reach the top.
6. Finish with mango slices and sprinkle crushed graham on top.
7. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Use ripe, sweet mangoes like Ataulfo or carabao for best results.
Chill the cream before mixing for a firmer texture.
This dessert tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Graham Mango Float, Filipino mango float, no-bake mango dessert, tropical dessert