Brazilian Chocolate Truffle (Brigadeiro)
Brigadeiro Say it: bree-gah-DAY-roo
Brigadeiro is a beloved Brazilian chocolate sweet, a staple at birthday parties and celebrations across the country. These small, fudgy balls are made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and a touch of butter, then rolled in chocolate sprinkles. The texture is soft and melt-in-the-mouth, with a rich, caramel-like chocolate flavor. Simple to prepare and requiring no baking, brigadeiro is a cherished treat that brings a taste of Brazilian hospitality to any table.
Brazilian Chocolate Truffle (Brigadeiro)
Brigadeiro
Pronounced bree-gah-DAY-roo
- Serves
- 4
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 15 min
- Total
- 25 min
- Level
- Easy
Also nut-free and egg-free.
Allergens: contains milk. Check labels on packaged ingredients.
Ingredients
Amounts are scaled. Cooking times and pan sizes stay the same.
Method
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and salt. Whisk until completely smooth.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the bottom of the pan, about 10–15 minutes. It should be thick like fudge.
To test doneness, tilt the pan. the mixture should slide slowly as one mass. Alternatively, drop a small amount onto a cold plate; it should hold its shape.
Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased plate and let it cool completely, about 1 hour at room temperature or 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Grease your hands with a little butter. Scoop teaspoonfuls of the cooled mixture and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until evenly coated, then place in small paper cups.
Serve at room temperature.
Regional variant: Brigadeiro de Colher (Spoon Brigadeiro)
Cook the mixture for only 8–10 minutes, until thickened but still soft and spoonable. Do not roll; instead, spoon into small cups or glasses, let cool, and top with chocolate sprinkles. Serve with a spoon.
Cook's notes
- Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from scorching on the bottom.
- Do not overcook, or the brigadeiros will become hard; undercook and they won't hold their shape.
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
Serve with
Serve with strong coffee or as part of a birthday party spread.
Make ahead and storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
