Mango Dessert Cups – Why This Recipe?
Hey friends, Chef Greeny here! Let me tell you, the very first time I tried mango dessert cups at a bustling summer food festival, I was instantly hooked. There’s just something magical about the creamy layers, bright flavors, and how every bite brings a little sunshine to your day. Mangoes aren’t just delicious—they’re loaded with nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy treat or a crowd-pleasing party snack, mango dessert cups are the perfect fit.
What sets this recipe apart? My version packs in seasonal inspiration, a creamy (but light!) texture, and totally customizable layers—including vegan, gluten-free, and protein-boosted options. Plus, I’ll let you in on five powerful secrets for perfecting this treat at home, whether you want a quick weeknight dessert or an Instagram-worthy party snack.
Here’s what you’ll get today:
- Chef Greeny’s tested recipe with pro tips
- Nutrition facts and ingredient swaps for any diet
- Surprising history and cultural twists
- Creative variations—vegan, keto, and more!
- Top trending FAQs (from Google, TikTok, Pinterest—last 7 days!)
- Actionable tricks for the best results—plus interactive extras
Ready? Let’s dive in!
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Mango Dessert Cups – Easy, Healthy, and Irresistible!
Layered mango dessert cups made with ripe mango, creamy yogurt, and granola. A fresh, healthy, and beautiful no-bake treat for summer or any time!
- Total Time: PT0H15M
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for vegan)
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (dairy or coconut)
- 2 tbsp honey (or agave/maple syrup for vegan)
- 1/2 cup granola or crushed graham crackers
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chia seeds, toasted coconut, mint leaves, pomegranate arils
Instructions
- Blend 1 1/2 mangoes with lime juice, honey, and salt until smooth.
- Place granola or graham crumbs at the bottom of each serving cup.
- Whisk yogurt, vanilla, and half the whipped cream until fluffy.
- Layer yogurt mixture over base, then mango puree, and repeat.
- Add reserved diced mango between layers.
- Top with whipped cream, fresh fruit, and desired toppings.
- Chill at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Use coconut yogurt and agave for vegan option.
- Store layered cups in fridge, covered, for up to 2 days.
- Assemble just before serving for max crunch.
- Add protein powder for a post-workout snack!
- Prep Time: PT0H15M
- Cook Time: PT0H0M
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake, Layered
- Cuisine: Fusion, Global, Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 dessert cup
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 14mg
Keywords: mango dessert cups, easy mango dessert, healthy dessert, mango parfait, no-bake mango treat
Mango Dessert Cups – Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients List
- 2 ripe mangoes (Ataulfo or Kent preferred), peeled and diced
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for vegan)
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (dairy or coconut-based)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave/maple syrup for vegan)
- 1/2 cup granola or crushed graham crackers
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chia seeds, toasted coconut, mint leaves, pomegranate arils
Substitution Ideas:
- Gluten-free: Use certified GF granola or almond meal instead of crackers.
- Dairy-free/Vegan: Swap Greek yogurt/whipped cream with coconut yogurt and plant-based whipped topping.
- Keto-friendly: Use unsweetened Greek yogurt and monk fruit sweetener; sub crushed nuts for the grain base.
- Protein boost: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the yogurt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Mango Purée
- In a blender, combine 1 1/2 mangoes (reserve some diced for layers), lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Blend until ultra-smooth. (Chef Greeny’s Tip: Taste your mango. If it’s super sweet, reduce the honey! Over-blending makes it too watery—pulse for best texture.)
- Layer the Base
- Place 1–2 tablespoons granola or graham crumbs into the bottom of each cup or jar. Mistake to Avoid: Don’t pack the crumbs—leave them slightly loose for better texture later!
- Mix the Creamy Layer
- In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and half the whipped cream until fluffy. (Secret: For richer flavor, fold in a splash of coconut cream!)
- Assemble the Cups
- Spoon a layer of yogurt mix over the base, then pour on a layer of mango purée. Repeat as desired. Add reserved mango chunks for extra bite.
- Finish and Chill
- Top with remaining whipped cream, fruit, and any extras (chia, coconut, mint, pomegranate). Chill at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.
Notes and Pro Tips
- Storage: These mango dessert cups keep well, covered, in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for max crunch!
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with lime zest, pistachios, or edible flowers for a show-stopping look.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the purée and yogurt mix a day ahead. Layer right before serving for best texture.
- Chef Greeny’s Pro Tip: For an ultra-smooth mango purée, strain through a fine mesh sieve before layering—this removes any fibrous bits.
Mango Dessert Cups – Nutritional Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (~) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 32 |
| Protein (g) | 8 |
| Total Fat (g) | 7 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 4 |
| Unsaturated Fat (g) | 3 |
| Trans Fat (g) | 0 |
| Fiber (g) | 3 |
| Sugar (g) | 24 |
| Cholesterol (mg) | 14 |
| Sodium (mg) | 55 |
Based on classic recipe, using Greek yogurt and graham crackers; nutrition will vary with swaps.
Mango Dessert Cups – History and Cultural Significance
Did you know that mango desserts have centuries-old roots across South Asia and the Middle East? Mango lassi, mango mousse, and layered fruit puddings are all beloved in Indian, Thai, and Filipino cuisines. The mango dessert cup is a modern twist inspired by traditional layered “falooda,” “mango float,” and trifle, blending global flavors for a grab-and-go treat.
In recent weeks, TikTok and Pinterest have exploded with creative mango cup hacks—think “layered mango parfaits” or “no-bake mango cheesecake jars”—with #mangodessertcups and #mangoparfait trending hard. Across cultures, mango desserts are all about celebration, sharing, and savoring the freshest flavors of the season.
Other similar dishes to check out:
- Indian Mango Shrikhand (strained yogurt + mango)
- Filipino Mango Float (layered graham and cream)
- Thai Mango Sticky Rice (swap sticky rice for crunchy granola in this recipe!)
Mango Dessert Cups – Creative Variations
Looking to put your own spin on mango dessert cups? Here are my top ideas, inspired by the latest food trends and real reader requests:
- Vegan Mango Dessert Cups: Use coconut yogurt, coconut whipped cream, and agave syrup. Top with toasted coconut flakes and a sprinkle of chia seeds for fiber.
- Keto Mango Cups: Replace honey with liquid stevia or monk fruit, use Greek yogurt (unsweetened), and swap granola for roasted chopped nuts. Add a swirl of almond butter for extra richness.
- Diabetic-Friendly: Use a low-glycemic sweetener (like allulose), plenty of fresh fruit, and limit the grain layer. Add extra yogurt for protein and blood sugar balance.
- Spicy Mango Cups: Mix diced mango with a dash of chili powder or Tajín before layering for a sweet–spicy kick.
- Protein Power Parfaits: Stir in your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the yogurt layer and top with pumpkin seeds.
Pro Tip: These cups adapt easily for meal prep—just keep wet and dry layers separate until ready to eat!
Mango Dessert Cups – Frequently Asked Questions
• How do you keep mango dessert cups from getting soggy?
Keep crunchy layers (like granola or graham crackers) separate until just before serving, or add a barrier of yogurt between fruit and crumbs.
• Can I make mango dessert cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep purée and yogurt layers up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble cups and add crunchy toppings just before serving for best texture.
• What are the best mangoes for dessert cups?
Look for ripe, sweet, non-fibrous varieties like Ataulfo, Kent, or Honey mangoes. Avoid stringy or underripe types for a smooth, luscious purée.
• Are mango dessert cups healthy?
Yes! They’re naturally rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and probiotics (if using yogurt). Adapt ingredients for low-sugar, high-protein, or dairy-free versions as needed.
• Can I use frozen mango?
Yes—thaw and drain well before blending. Frozen mango works great in purée but may be a bit softer when layered.
Mango Dessert Cups – Final Thoughts
To wrap up, mango dessert cups are more than just a trendy treat—they’re a celebration of fresh fruit, layered flavors, and customizable nutrition. Whether you crave a quick summer snack, a healthy dessert for kids, or a gluten-free party showstopper, these cups deliver joy in every spoonful. Mangoes bring a burst of vitamins, and you get to control every ingredient for your lifestyle.
Ready to give them a try?
Tried these Mango Dessert Cups? Share your tasty results or favorite variation below—I love seeing your creations!
Craving more fresh dessert ideas? Check out our Berry Parfait recipe here or learn more about the amazing mango on Wikipedia.
