Beijinho de Coco (Brazilian Coconut Truffles)

• Prep time: 15 mins

• Cook time: 15 mins

• Total time: 30 mins (plus chilling)

• Servings: 20 truffles

• Country of Origin: Brazil

Description

• Known as "Little Kiss," Beijinho is the coconut counterpart to Brigadeiro and a classic fixture at Brazilian children's birthday parties.

• Crafted from condensed milk, butter, and grated coconut, topped with a single clove for visual contrast and aromatic touch.

Presentation

• Rolled in unsweetened fine grated coconut and placed in mini paper liners.

• Studded with one whole clove stuck into the top center of each ball.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 cup unsweetened fine grated coconut (plus 1/2 cup extra for coating)

• Whole cloves (for decoration)

• Extra butter for greasing hands

Directions

• Combine sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1 cup grated coconut in a saucepan over medium-low heat.

• Cook stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and releases cleanly from the bottom of the pan (12–15 minutes).

• Spread onto a shallow buttered plate and cool completely in the refrigerator.

• Lightly grease hands with butter, scoop small portions, and roll into 1-inch balls.

• Roll each truffle in reserved grated coconut to coat completely.

• Press a single whole clove into the top of each truffle before serving.

Optional Variations

• Beijinho de Abacaxi: Mix 2 tablespoons of finely minced candied pineapple into the cooked mixture.

• Beijinho Com Cravo e Canela: Dust lightly with cinnamon powder alongside grated coconut.

Cooking Tips

• Remove the clove before eating; it is primarily ornamental and adds subtle aroma.

• Fine unsweetened coconut yields a much cleaner finish than sweetened or coarse coconut flakes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 95 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 13 g

• Protein: 2 g

• Fat: 4.5 g

• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g

• Sodium: 22 mg

• Fiber: 0.8 g

• Sugar: 12 g