Ycaroh Kitchen Blog

Traditional Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro Tradicional

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Servings

20 brigadeiros

Yield

20 brigadeiros

Calories

Approximately 80 calories
Embrace the essence of Brazilian joy and sweetness with the Traditional Brigadeiro. This quintessential Brazilian dessert is a staple at celebrations and a beloved treat nationwide, known for its irresistible creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this simple yet sophisticated sweet rolls tradition and taste into one delightful bite. Perfect for those exploring the world of international desserts or seeking to recreate cherished memories, the Traditional Brigadeiro is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Each brigadeiro offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, combining the comforting taste of chocolate with the perfect hint of sweetness, making it impossible to stop at just one. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned confectioner, this recipe will guide you through making these exquisite chocolate balls that are sure to captivate and impress. Venture into the heart of Brazilian culinary tradition with this Traditional Brigadeiro recipe. Not only does it offer a gateway to experiencing Brazil’s most cherished dessert, but it also serves as a delightful introduction to the simplicity and richness of Brazilian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, these brigadeiros are sure to become a favorite treat to share with friends and family, or to simply indulge in a moment of sweet bliss.

Ingredients

  • 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing hands
  • 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, sifted
  • Chocolate sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon of butter, and cocoa powder. Stir until well mixed.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, to prevent burning, until the mixture thickens and starts to show the bottom of the pan when you scrape it with a spoon (about 10-15 minutes).
  • Pour the mixture into a greased dish and let it cool to room temperature.
  • Once cooled, grease your hands with a bit of butter, and scoop out portions of the mixture to roll into balls.
  • Roll each brigadeiro in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
  • Place the brigadeiros in paper cups and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks

  • Letting the mixture cool completely before rolling makes the process easier and less sticky.
  • If the mixture is too sticky, greasing your hands with butter before rolling the brigadeiros helps significantly.
  • For a festive look, use colored sprinkles or even crushed nuts instead of chocolate sprinkles.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking and prevent the brigadeiro from burning.
  • Constantly stir the brigadeiro with a silicone spatula to avoid forming lumps.
  • The ideal point of the brigadeiro is when you tilt the pan to the side, and the mixture slides together, not sticking.
  • Wait for the brigadeiro to cool completely before rolling it to prevent it from melting in your hands.
  • If you prefer a more intense flavor, choose a cocoa powder with a higher percentage of cocoa.
  • For a smoother texture, keep stirring constantly during cooking.

Mise en Place

Ingredients

Utensils

  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Unsalted butter
  • Cocoa powder
  • Chocolate sprinkles
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Greased dish
  • Small paper cups

“We participate in the Amazon Associates Program, an intermediary service between Amazon and customers, which remunerates the inclusion of links to the Amazon site and affiliate sites.”