If you haven’t had Brigadeiros yet, you’re in for a treat! These bite-sized Brazilian chocolate truffles are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. A party staple in Brazil, Brigadeiros are made with just a few simple ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just want a quick and decadent dessert, Brigadeiros are a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like condensed milk and cocoa powder, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up.
Customizable Coatings: From classic chocolate sprinkles to desiccated coconut and crushed nuts, you can mix and match your favorite coatings.
Perfect Party Treat: These bite-sized truffles are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack to enjoy at home.
Ingredient Highlights:
Sweetened Condensed Milk: The base of the Brigadeiro, adding richness and sweetness to the truffles.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides the chocolatey flavor that balances perfectly with the condensed milk.
Butter: Helps to create that smooth, fudgy texture and enhances the richness of the truffles.
Best Ways to Store and Reheat:
Storage: Store Brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Serving: Serve them chilled or at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Variations:
Nutty Brigadeiros: Roll the truffles in finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios for extra crunch.
Flavored Brigadeiros: Add a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or a hint of espresso powder to the mixture for a twist on the classic flavor.
Colorful Brigadeiros: Use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for a fun and festive presentation, especially for kids’ parties.
Detailed Instructions:
Cook the Mixture:
Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 tablespoon (15g) of butter.
Add the Ingredients: Stir in 1 can (14oz/397g) of sweetened condensed milk and 1/4 cup (30g) of unsweetened cocoa powder. Add a pinch of salt for balance.
Cook Until Thick: Stir the mixture continuously for 6-8 minutes, or until it thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Cool the Mixture:
Transfer to a Plate: Pour the thickened mixture onto a greased plate or pan and spread it out evenly.
Cool for 1 Hour: Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 1 hour until it’s firm enough to roll.
Shape the Brigadeiros:
Grease Your Hands: Lightly grease your hands with butter.
Roll the Balls: Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls.
Coat the Brigadeiros:
Choose Your Coatings: Roll each ball in your desired coating—chocolate sprinkles, desiccated coconut, or crushed pistachios—until fully covered.
Chill and Serve:
Chill the Brigadeiros: Place the Brigadeiros in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chilled Brigadeiros as a delicious, fudgy treat!
Cooking Tips & Techniques:
Stir Continuously: To avoid burning the mixture, make sure to stir constantly while cooking on low heat.
Don’t Overcook: Cook the mixture until it thickens and starts pulling away from the sides of the pan. Overcooking can make it too firm and difficult to roll.
Grease Your Hands: Lightly grease your hands with butter before rolling the Brigadeiros to prevent sticking.
How to Serve It:
Serve Brigadeiros as a bite-sized treat for dessert or as a sweet addition to a party spread. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be served in mini cupcake liners for a fun and elegant presentation!
Perfect Pairings:
Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of Brigadeiros pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee.
Fresh Berries: Serve with berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet, chocolatey truffles.
ALSO READ: S’mores Cookies: Irresistibly Delicious!
Best Ways to Store and Reheat:
Refrigeration: Store Brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Diet-Friendly Options:
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, and use sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Common Questions Answered:
Can I make Brigadeiros ahead of time? Absolutely! They can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What if my mixture is too hard to roll? If the mixture is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften before rolling.
Can I freeze Brigadeiros? Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Brigadeiro: Irresistible Brazilian Chocolate Truffles!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Spatula
- Greased plate or pan
- Hands for rolling
Ingredients
- 1 can 14oz/397g sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon 15g butter
For Coating:
- Desiccated coconut
- Crushed pistachios
- Chocolate sprinkles
Instructions
- Cook the Mixture:In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.Add the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.Stir continuously and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. Be careful not to overcook.
- Cool the Mixture:Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a greased plate or pan.Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Shape the Brigadeiros:Grease your hands with butter and roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Coat the Brigadeiros:Roll each ball in your desired coating, such as desiccated coconut, crushed pistachios, or chocolate sprinkles, until fully covered.
- Chill and Serve:Place the Brigadeiros in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Brigadeiros are perfect for making ahead of time and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can get creative with the coatings by using crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or even shredded chocolate.