Brigadeiro Recipe
Brigadeiros are a beloved Brazilian treat with a texture that lands between fudge and caramel—rich, smooth, and slightly chewy.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter plus extra for rolling
Chocolate Flavor
- 0.25 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped chocolate, or high-quality cocoa powder
Coating and Presentation
- 0.33 cup chocolate sprinkles or preferred topping
- small paper candy cups optional for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, and butter. Stir together before turning on the heat.
- Step 2: Place the pan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula to avoid burning or sticking. Cook for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
- Step 3: Test consistency by dragging the spatula through the middle of the pan. If it takes 3–5 seconds to close, it's ready. The mixture should fall in thick clumps from a spoon.
- Step 4: For a filling, remove from heat earlier. For rolled candies, continue cooking until firmer.
- Step 5: Transfer mixture to a lightly buttered bowl. Cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours.
- Step 6: Lightly butter your hands. Scoop teaspoon-sized amounts and roll into balls.
- Step 7: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles or your topping of choice. Cup your hand to shape them into smooth rounds.
- Step 8: Place in candy cups if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
Keep the heat low to avoid grainy texture. Stir constantly and use real chocolate or Dutch-processed cocoa for best flavor. For cake filling, remove from heat sooner for a softer consistency.
Flavor variations include coconut (Beijinho), Nutella, strawberry (Bicho de Pé), and Crème Brûlée. Try rolling in coconut, pistachios, or even edible gold for a gourmet look.
Storage: At room temperature, store in a sealed container for up to 3 days. In the fridge, they'll keep for 1–2 weeks. Freeze the unrolled dough for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 110
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 25mg
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g