Brazilian Brigadeiros Recipe

Brigadeiros are a beloved Brazilian treat, made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles. These bite-sized chocolate truffles are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make at home. They are often served at parties, but you can enjoy them anytime as a delightful, sweet treat!

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
• Chocolate sprinkles (or other toppings like shredded coconut, nuts, or powdered sugar)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream for a creamier texture
• ¼ teaspoon espresso powder for a mocha flavor

For Toppings:

• Chocolate sprinkles
• Shredded coconut
• Finely chopped nuts
• Cocoa powder
• Powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Brigadeiro Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue cooking for about 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. The mixture should be thick and shiny.
3. If using, stir in the vanilla extract once the mixture is done cooking.

Step 2: Cool the Mixture

1. Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the mixture to a plate or shallow dish.
2. Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to speed up the process. It should be cool enough to handle and roll into balls.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

1. While the mixture cools, pour the chocolate sprinkles (or other toppings) into a shallow bowl or plate. You can also use a mix of toppings like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder.

Step 4: Roll the Brigadeiros

1. Once the brigadeiro mixture has cooled, grease your hands lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
3. Roll the brigadeiro in the chocolate sprinkles (or your chosen toppings) until fully coated.
4. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the finished brigadeiros on a plate or in small paper cups.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Brigadeiros at room temperature or chilled. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later.

Cooking Notes

• Consistency: The key to perfect brigadeiros is cooking the mixture until it thickens enough to hold its shape. The mixture should pull away from the sides of the pan and be thick but still soft and smooth when rolled into balls.
• Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! While chocolate sprinkles are traditional, you can use coconut flakes, crushed nuts, or powdered sugar for different flavors and textures.

Variations

1. Brigadeiros with White Chocolate

Instead of cocoa powder, use white chocolate chips melted into the condensed milk mixture. Roll in shredded coconut or colored sprinkles for a fun twist.

2. Coconut Brigadeiros (Beijinho)

Swap the cocoa powder for shredded coconut in the mixture to make a traditional Beijinho. Roll the balls in more shredded coconut or sugar for a tropical flavor.

3. Nutella Brigadeiros

For a richer, creamier version, mix 2 tablespoons of Nutella into the brigadeiro mixture and cook as usual. Roll the balls in crushed hazelnuts or chocolate sprinkles.

4. Brigadeiro with Almonds

Add 1/4 cup of ground almonds to the mixture for a nutty twist, or roll the brigadeiros in chopped almonds for a crunchy exterior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Brigadeiros ahead of time?
Yes! Brigadeiros are perfect for making ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They taste best when served at room temperature, so let them sit out for a few minutes before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover Brigadeiros?
Store leftover brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I make Brigadeiros without cocoa powder?
Yes, you can skip the cocoa powder to make Vanilla Brigadeiros. Simply cook the sweetened condensed milk and butter as usual, and roll them in your choice of toppings.

Q: Can I make Brigadeiros without butter?
While butter adds richness and helps prevent sticking, you can reduce or omit the butter if you prefer. The texture may be slightly different, but the brigadeiros will still taste delicious.

Q: Can I use different sprinkles for Brigadeiros?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of sprinkles like rainbow sprinkles, colored sugar, or even crushed cookies for fun and unique brigadeiros.

These Brazilian Brigadeiros are a simple yet indulgent treat that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re making them for a party or as a fun dessert for yourself, brigadeiros are rich, fudgy, and always a hit. Customize them with your favorite toppings or flavor variations, and enjoy these delicious Brazilian chocolate truffles!