Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro is a traditional Brazilian sweet that embodies the essence of indulgence. These bite-sized chocolate treats are made with just a few ingredients, and their rich, fudgy texture makes them irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or just want a sweet treat, brigadeiros are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to create these mouthwatering desserts that will leave everyone asking for more!

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Chocolate sprinkles (for coating)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 12 brigadeiros. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each brigadeiro (approx. 20g) contains about 80 calories, 2g protein, 4g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g sugar. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
3. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan (around 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Once cooled, grease your hands with butter and scoop out small portions of the mixture.
6. Roll each portion into a ball (about 1 inch in diameter).
7. Coat each ball in chocolate sprinkles, ensuring it’s fully covered.
8. Place brigadeiros on a plate lined with parchment paper.
9. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
10. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for a variation, you can use white chocolate instead of cocoa powder for a different flavor. You can also experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes instead of chocolate sprinkles.

Serving and Pairings

Brigadeiros are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. They can also complement a dessert platter alongside fruits, cakes, or ice cream for a festive occasion.

Storage and Reheating

Store brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be frozen for longer storage, but it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

• Don’t rush the cooking process; stirring constantly is key to a smooth texture.
• Ensure the mixture is thick enough before removing it from heat.
• Grease your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking when rolling.
• Use high-quality chocolate sprinkles for the best flavor.
• Let the mixture cool enough to handle, but not too long or it will harden.

Helpful Tips

• Experiment with flavoring the mixture with vanilla or orange zest.
• Try different coatings like cocoa powder or crushed cookies.
• Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized brigadeiros.
• For a twist, add a pinch of sea salt on top before serving.

FAQs

What is brigadeiro?

Brigadeiro is a Brazilian sweet made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, rolled into small balls and coated in chocolate sprinkles. It’s a popular treat for celebrations and casual snacking.

Can brigadeiro be made without cocoa?

Yes! Brigadeiros can be made without cocoa by using white chocolate or other flavorings like coconut. The base recipe remains the same, allowing for creative variations.

How long do brigadeiros last?

Brigadeiros can last up to a week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for longer preservation.

Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Certainly! Sweetened chocolate can be melted and mixed into the condensed milk for a richer flavor, but you may need to adjust the sugar content.

Are brigadeiros gluten-free?

Yes, brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Brigadeiros are not only a delicious treat but also a symbol of Brazilian culture and joy. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether enjoyed at a party or as a sweet indulgence at home, brigadeiros are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone who tries them.

Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro is a traditional Brazilian sweet made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, rolled into small balls and coated in chocolate sprinkles.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Brazilian

Keyword: brigadeiro, Brazilian dessert, chocolate, sweets, treats

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 80kcal

Ingredients

• 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Chocolate sprinkles for coating

Instructions

• In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
• Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Grease your hands with butter and scoop out small portions of the mixture.
• Roll each portion into a ball (about 1 inch in diameter).
• Coat each ball in chocolate sprinkles, ensuring it's fully covered.
• Place brigadeiros on a plate lined with parchment paper.
• Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 80kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Sugar: 8g