Doce De Bolacha Tutorial

Do you LOVE Portuguese goodies? Do you want to learn how to make a really simple but completely delicious dessert that is SURE to wow the crowd? Then this post is for you my friends! Learn how to make the Portuguese delight that is Doce De Bolacha. In many ways it is like a Tiramisu but a bit simpler and with a few less ingredients. Now let's get started!



What you will need:

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package of Maria type biscuit cookies. (These can be found at Mediterranean markets, Portuguese markets, Mexican markets and even at your regular grocery store usually in the ethnic food aisle)
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk 
• About 14 oz of whole milk
• 1 small container of heavy whipping cream (pint size)
• 5 eggs separated 
• 2 cups of brewed espresso or strong brewed coffee
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract

Gather your ingredients

Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk into a medium to large sized saucepan (heat is NOT on yet).

Fill the empty can with the whole milk and add to the pan.

Add the separated egg yolks (just the yolks folks!).

Add vanilla extract, reserving about a teaspoon for later.

Bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. When it starts to boil, turn off the heat. 

Pour this hot mixture into the bottom of your pan or dessert cups. Use either depending on how you would like your dessert presented. I will demonstrate it both ways. 

Pass all but 2 of the Maria biscuits through the espresso or coffee. Do this rather quickly because these puppies soak up the liquid really fast and turn to mush if you leave them in too long. You get them in then out!  Save the last 2 biscuits for decoration on the top. 

Layer the soaked biscuits on top of your custard layer.

Next place your egg whites into a mixing bowl and begin to whip.

Slowly add the sugar to stabilize the whites.

Sorry this pic is not the greatest angle!

Whip egg whites and sugar until peaks form.

In a separate mixing bowl, whip the whipping cream with the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract.

So...I did not get a picture of the whipping cream process but the bowl on the right is the finished product.

Slowly fold the egg white mixture into the whipped cream mixture and beat until fluffy.

Spread the fluffy cream mixture over your coffee soaked cookie layer covering it completely.

Crumble the few cookies that you left behind and sprinkle over the top of your dessert.

If desired for effect and to add another smidge of coffee flavor, sprinkle a little bit of instant espresso over the top.

Make sure you chill your dessert for at least one hour before serving and above all else...make sure you enjoy it! Portuguese desserts are simple and delicious and are sure to be hit at any event that you bring them to. Enjoy!