Brigadeiro, a traditional Brazilian dessert, is the perfect handheld treat for any special occasion. These decadent Brazilian fudge balls are made from three simple ingredients; condensed milk, cocoa milk powder, butter, and then they’re rolled in a traditional coating of chocolate sprinkles.
Follow our easy-to-make brigadeiro recipe, and you will have the most delicious homemade, Tootsie Roll-ish candies you have ever tasted!
Brigadeiro made its first appearance in Rio de Janeiro, created by confectioner Helosia Nabuco de Oliveria. Since its debut, brigadeiro has become a beloved confection throughout Brazil. These fudgy, truffle-like chocolate balls can be found at nearly every festive event, from children’s birthday parties to holiday gatherings.
Brigadeiro (Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)
Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, separated
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons Nestle Quik
- chocolate or rainbow sprinkles (for rolling)
- paper candy cups, optional
Supplies
- medium saucepan
- silicone spatula
- candy thermometer (optional)
- medium bowl
Directions
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add one tablespoon of butter, sweetened condensed milk, and Nestle Quik. Using a silicone spatula stir the mixture until well blended and smooth.
Continuously stir the mixture for about 10 minutes until it starts to thicken and begins to bubble around the edges. Reduce the heat to a slow simmer to keep the mixture from burning.
As the mixture continues to thicken, you’ll notice that when you scrape the batter with the spatula, it will start to pull away from the sides and bottom of the pan, staying together without spreading, this means that the mixture is ready. Or when it reaches 205-208 degrees on a candy thermometer.
Transfer the brigadeiro mixture to a medium bowl and chill in the refrigerator until set, about 30 minutes. Or, leave on the countertop for about 2 hours.
When the brigadeiro mixture is cooled, use the remaining butter to butter your hands and then scoop tablespoon portions. Roll the pieces into small balls and coat them in chocolate or rainbow sprinkles. Place each brigadeiro into a paper cup if you choose.
Store the brigadeiro in the refrigerator or cool place until ready to serve. Brigadeiro will keep for about 3 days.
Dress Up Your Brigadeiros!
In Brazil, there is no party without brigadeiro! Similar to popular Oreo truffles, brigadeiro are easy to customize. Let us show you how to dress up your brigadeiro for any celebration.
- Skip store-bought chocolates this Valentine’s Day and treat your sweetheart to a box of delicious Valentine brigadeiros. Simply coat your brigadeiros in Valentine’s Day-themed sprinkles for a fun touch, or roll in freeze-dried raspberry pieces.
- Prepare an adorable Easter dessert by swapping out the Nesquik in your brigadeiro recipe for 2/3 cup white chocolate pieces. Coat your brigadeiro balls in shredded unsweetened coconut instead of sprinkles.
- Making brigadeiro is a Christmastime tradition in Brazil. For Christmas brigadeiros, roll the brigadeiro balls in crushed candy canes or festive Christmas sprinkles.
