We’ve always adored Brazo de Mercedes, the beloved Filipino dessert featuring light meringue wrapped around rich custard. Originating from the Philippines it’s a staple at celebrations and now we’re giving it a modern spin with these irresistible cupcakes.
These bite-sized treats keep the authentic flavors we cherish while making them easier to bake at home. Whether you’re a fan of traditional sweets or exploring new twists our version promises a delightful experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
As we explore our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes recipe, we begin with the essential ingredients that capture the dessert’s signature light meringue and rich custard flavors. These components ensure an authentic twist on the traditional Filipino treat, making it perfect for home baking.
We recommend gathering these ingredients in the order they are typically used during preparation—starting with the meringue base followed by the custard filling and finishing touches.
- Egg whites: 6 large, at room temperature (these form the airy base of our meringue, providing a fluffy texture that defines Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes)
- Cream of tartar: ½ teaspoon (helps stabilize the egg whites for a perfect, pillowy meringue)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, divided (adds sweetness and structure; use half for the meringue and half for the custard)
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons (infuses a warm, aromatic note throughout both the meringue and custard layers)
- Egg yolks: 6 large (create the creamy, indulgent custard that contrasts beautifully with the meringue’s lightness)
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can (14 ounces; delivers a rich, velvety sweetness essential to the authentic flavor)
- Evaporated milk: 1 can (12 ounces; adds a smooth, milky depth to the custard)
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon, finely grated (offers a subtle citrus brightness that enhances the custard’s richness without overpowering it)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (for greasing the cupcake tins, ensuring easy release and a golden finish)
- Powdered sugar: ¼ cup, for dusting (provides a final, elegant touch that highlights the dessert’s visual appeal and subtle sweetness in Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes)
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand. These items will help us achieve that perfect light meringue and creamy custard filling with ease and precision.
- Mixing bowls: Large and medium sizes for whipping egg whites into fluffy meringue and combining custard ingredients; stainless steel or glass works best for stability.
- Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand-held version with whisk attachments to beat the meringue to stiff peaks quickly and evenly, ensuring our cupcakes have that signature airy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets for precise measurements of ingredients like sugar and milk, which are crucial for balancing the flavors in our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes.
- Saucepan: A medium-sized one for gently heating the custard mixture on the stove, allowing for smooth thickening without scorching.
- Whisk: A sturdy wire whisk for manually blending custard components and incorporating air into the mixture for a rich, velvety result.
- Cupcake pan: A standard 12-cup pan lined with paper or silicone liners to shape and bake the meringue bases evenly, giving our cupcakes their adorable, bite-sized form.
- Oven: Preheated to the exact temperature for baking, as this ensures the meringue sets perfectly without over-browning.
- Spatula: A silicone or rubber one for folding ingredients and scraping bowls clean, helping us avoid waste and achieve clean transfers.
- Piping bag and tips: Optional but recommended for filling or decorating the cupcakes with custard, adding a professional touch to our homemade treats.
- Cooling rack: Essential for allowing the baked cupcakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess and preserving the delicate meringue structure in our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes.
Instructions
We transform the classic Filipino flavors of Brazo de Mercedes into irresistible cupcakes by following these precise steps, blending light meringue with rich custard for a treat that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
Prepare the Custard
To create the heart of our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes—the creamy, golden custard—start by gathering the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lemon zest as outlined in our ingredients list. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 6 large egg yolks, 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, and 1 cup evaporated milk until fully combined. This mixture will form a smooth base that infuses the dessert with its signature richness.
Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and continue whisking constantly to prevent lumps, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the custard thickens to a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon. You’ll notice a fragrant, citrusy aroma emerging, evoking the fresh tang of traditional Filipino treats. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until it melts and blends seamlessly, resulting in a glossy filling that’s warm and inviting. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to avoid a skin forming, and let it cool completely for about 30 minutes before use.
Make the Meringue
We craft the airy, cloud-like meringue that gives our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes their light texture. In a large, clean mixing bowl, combine 6 large egg whites and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar, then beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form—this should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a frothy base that’s essential for stability.
Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while increasing the mixer speed to high, and incorporate 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a subtle, sweet depth. Continue beating for 5-7 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form, transforming the mixture into a shimmering, snow-white foam that holds its shape perfectly. At this stage, the meringue will have a delicate, marshmallow-like scent, promising the melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes these cupcakes so addictive. Gently fold in any optional flavor enhancers, like a pinch of salt, using a spatula to maintain that voluminous structure.
Bake the Cupcakes
With our meringue ready, we bake the cupcakes to achieve a golden, crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to ensure easy removal and a professional finish.
Spoon the meringue mixture into each liner, filling them about ¾ full to allow for rising, then use a spoon or piping bag to create small wells in the center for the custard. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops turn a light golden brown and feel firm to the touch, filling your kitchen with the irresistible, sweet aroma of toasting meringue. For optimal results, rotate the pan halfway through baking to promote even cooking—internal temperature should reach about 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool on a rack for 10 minutes, where they’ll develop a delightful, airy crunch.
| Baking Time | Oven Temperature | Internal Temp for Safety |
|---|---|---|
| 15-20 minutes | 325°F (163°C) | 160°F (71°C) |
Assemble and Fill
Finally, we assemble our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes by incorporating the cooled custard, turning simple baked meringue into a decadent, layered delight. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, use a small knife or piping tip to core out the center of each one, creating a cavity for the filling without compromising the delicate structure.
Spoon or pipe the prepared custard into each hollowed-out cupcake, filling it generously but not overflowing—aim for about 1-2 tablespoons per cupcake to balance flavors. For an elegant touch, dust the tops with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest. The result is a harmonious blend of textures: the crisp, feather-light meringue enveloping the smooth, creamy custard, delivering a burst of authentic Filipino taste in every bite-sized portion. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set, enhancing the cool, refreshing contrast that makes this treat perfect for celebrations.
Make-Ahead Tips
As we wrap up the assembly of our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes, let’s explore how to prepare these delightful Filipino-inspired treats in advance to keep their light meringue crisp and rich custard creamy without compromising flavor.
Preparing Components Ahead
We suggest breaking down the process to save time while preserving the authentic taste and texture. Start by making the custard a day or two before. Whisk the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened, then cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate—it holds up beautifully for up to 48 hours, ensuring a smooth, velvety fill that bursts with citrus notes when you’re ready to use it.
For the meringue cupcakes, bake them ahead and store to maintain their golden-brown exterior and soft peaks. Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form, gradually add sugar and vanilla until stiff, then bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes. Once cooled on a rack, place the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. This keeps the delicate meringue from becoming soggy, allowing the sweet, airy structure to shine.
Storage and Reassembly Guidelines
To optimize freshness, avoid assembling the cupcakes fully until serving time. If preparing for a celebration, core the baked cupcakes and fill with the chilled custard up to 4 hours in advance, then dust with powdered sugar and lemon zest. Store them in the refrigerator to lock in the harmonious blend of textures, but let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
For longer storage, consider freezing. Below is a quick reference table for make-ahead timelines and methods:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Custard | Up to 2 days | Refrigerated in an airtight container | Stir before use to restore creaminess and prevent any skin from forming |
| Baked Cupcakes | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container at room temperature | Keep away from moisture; revive in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if needed |
| Assembled Cupcakes | Up to 4 hours | Refrigerated | Avoid overcrowding; this ensures the meringue stays light and the custard doesn’t weep |
| Frozen Option | Up to 1 month | Freezer in a sealed bag | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and refresh in the oven for optimal texture |
By following these steps, we ensure our Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes remain a convenient, crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this fresh take on Brazo de Mercedes cupcakes with you. It’s a simple way to bring authentic Filipino flavors into our kitchens while adding a fun twist to classic celebrations.
By trying this recipe you’ll discover how easy it is to create something truly special that delights family and friends. Let’s keep baking and sharing these cultural gems to make every gathering memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brazo de Mercedes?
Brazo de Mercedes is a classic Filipino dessert featuring light meringue wrapped around rich custard. Traditionally rolled, this version transforms it into bite-sized cupcakes, keeping the authentic flavors while making it easier for home bakers. It’s popular for celebrations, blending airy texture with creamy filling for a delightful treat.
What are the key ingredients for Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes?
The main ingredients include egg whites, cream of tartar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract for the meringue, and egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, lemon zest, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar for the custard. These create the signature light meringue and rich filling, ensuring an authentic Filipino taste in a convenient form.
What equipment is needed to make Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes?
You’ll need large and medium mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a saucepan, a whisk, a cupcake pan with liners, a preheated oven at 325°F, a spatula, and a cooling rack. A piping bag is optional for assembly. This setup helps achieve perfect texture and even baking.
How do I prepare Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes?
Start by making the custard: whisk egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lemon zest until thickened. For the meringue, beat egg whites and cream of tartar to soft peaks, add sugar and vanilla until stiff. Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes, cool, then core and fill with custard. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Can I make Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the custard 1-2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Bake the meringue cupcakes ahead and keep them at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Assemble by filling and dusting just before serving to maintain freshness and texture for your gathering.
How should I store Brazo de Mercedes Cupcakes?
Store unfilled cupcakes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Refrigerate filled cupcakes for up to 2 days to keep the custard fresh. For longer storage, freeze unfilled cupcakes for up to a month; thaw and fill before serving to preserve the delicate meringue. Always avoid moisture to prevent sogginess.