Description
A classic Filipino dessert made of light, fluffy meringue rolled around a rich, golden custard filling — Brazo de Mercedes is a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
8 large egg whites
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
For the Custard Filling:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
8 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Vegetable oil, for brushing parchment
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper brushed lightly with oil.
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites on low speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Spread the meringue evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and set.
- While baking, prepare the custard: In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and condensed milk over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool.
- Once baked, let the meringue cool slightly. Dust the top with powdered sugar and carefully flip it onto another parchment sheet. Peel off the original parchment.
- Spread the cooled custard evenly over the meringue, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Starting from one short end, gently roll the meringue into a log, using the parchment to help guide it.
- Slice into portions and dust with more powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Add lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy twist.
Sift cocoa powder into the meringue for a chocolate version.
Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for a richer dessert.
Roll with a layer of jam beneath the custard for added sweetness and color.
Store loosely covered at room temperature for up to 1 day; refrigerate only if needed for short-term storage.
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 weeks and thaw overnight before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
