Description
Brigadeiros are classic Brazilian chocolate truffles made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa, and butter, cooked until thick and creamy, then rolled into bite-sized balls and coated with chocolate sprinkles or nuts. Perfect as a sweet treat for parties or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Brigadeiro Mixture
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Coating
- Good quality chocolate sprinkles (or toasted pistachios, almonds, coconut, or colored sprinkles)
- Butter for rubbing hands
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a small saucepan combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped bittersweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and salt. Heat over medium-high, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Cook the Mixture: Reduce heat to medium-low and continue stirring constantly for 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens, becomes shiny, and pulls away from the sides and bottom of the pot.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until melted and fully incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Chill: Transfer the mixture to a glass bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 1/2 hours or overnight until firm enough to handle.
- Form Balls: Once chilled, rub softened butter on your hands. Scoop out rounded teaspoons of the chocolate mixture and roll each into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Coat the Brigadeiros: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles or your choice of coating until fully covered. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Store: Store brigadeiros tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 1 week before serving.
Notes
- Use good quality bittersweet chocolate for best flavor.
- Chilling time is important to ensure the mixture is firm enough to roll.
- Alternative coatings include toasted nuts or shredded coconut for different textures.
- Store brigadeiros in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.
- These truffles can be made a day ahead, making them perfect for entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
