Brazo de Mercedes Roll

Ingredients

• For the meringue: For the meringue:
• 6 large eggs, separated 6 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• For the custard filling: For the custard filling:
• 6 large egg yolks 6 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 40g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract while continuing to beat on medium speed. Beat until stiff peaks form.
4. 4.
   Spread the meringue mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangular shape.
5. 5.
   Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden.
6. 6.
   While the meringue is baking, prepare the custard filling. In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, condensed milk, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool.
7. 7.
   Once the meringue has cooled, carefully transfer it to a clean surface. Spread the custard filling evenly over the meringue.
8. 8.
   Gently roll the meringue from one end to the other, using the parchment paper to help you roll it tightly.
9. 9.
   Transfer the rolled Brazo de Mercedes to a serving platter and dust with powdered sugar.
10. 10.
    Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Slice into individual portions and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggs — Separate the egg whites and yolks carefully to avoid any traces of yolk in the whites, as this can hinder the meringue from reaching its desired consistency.
• Powdered sugar — Sift the powdered sugar before using it to ensure a smooth meringue texture.
• Lemon juice — Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results in stabilizing the meringue.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a perfectly rolled Brazo de Mercedes, make sure the meringue is completely cooled before spreading the custard filling.
• Dusting the rolled dessert with powdered sugar not only adds a touch of elegance but also prevents the meringue from sticking to the parchment paper.
• For a variation, you can add a thin layer of fruit jam or spread on top of the custard filling before rolling.

Serving advice

Serve chilled for the best experience. Brazo de Mercedes Roll can be enjoyed as a delightful dessert after a meal or as a sweet treat during special occasions.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the serving platter with fresh berries or mint leaves. Dust a little extra powdered sugar on top of the rolled dessert just before serving for an added touch of elegance.