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As summer approaches and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dessert to beat the heat. Enter the Tropical Delight: Chilled Mango Bars—a vibrant, fruity treat that captures the essence of the tropics in every bite. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, presenting a sunny yellow filling atop a buttery, crumbly crust. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this dessert is sure to impress at summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a sweet indulgence after dinner.

Chilled Mango Bars

Beat the heat this summer with Tropical Delight: Chilled Mango Bars! These vibrant, fruity treats feature a creamy mango filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet ending to dinner, this easy-to-make recipe blends the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes with a hint of lime for a delicious tropical experience. Impress your friends and family with this visually stunning dessert. Enjoy the essence of the tropics in every bite!

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the mango filling:

2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)

1 cup full-fat yogurt

½ cup sweetened condensed milk

2 tbsp lime juice

1 tbsp lime zest

1 tsp unflavored gelatin (optional, for a firmer texture)

2 tbsp water (if using gelatin)

For the garnish:

Fresh mint leaves

Lime wheels or slices (optional)

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Instructions
 

Prepare the crust:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

      - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

        - Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9x9-inch (or similar size) baking pan evenly to create a compact crust.

          - Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

            Make the mango filling:

              - In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mangoes, yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Blend until smooth and creamy.

                - If using gelatin for a firmer texture, dissolve unflavored gelatin in 2 tablespoons of warm water and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms. Then, gently warm it until melted and incorporate it into the mango filling mixture, blending well.

                  Assemble the bars:

                    - Pour the mango filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.

                      - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely chilled and set.

                        Serving:

                          - Once set, carefully cut the chilled mango bars into squares.

                            - Garnish each bar with fresh mint leaves and a slice of lime, if desired.

                              Enjoy!

                                - Serve chilled and relish the tropical flavors of these refreshing mango bars!

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                                    Prep Time | Total Time | Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours 30 minutes | 16 bars