Brigadeiro (Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)

• Prep time: 15 mins

• Cook time: 15 mins

• Total time: 30 mins (plus chilling)

• Servings: 20 truffles

• Country of Origin: Brazil

Description

• Brigadeiro is Brazil's most iconic sweet, created in the 1940s and named after Air Force Brigadier Eduardo Gomes.

• Made from sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder cooked down to a fudge consistency, rolled into balls, and coated in chocolate sprinkles.

Presentation

• Served individually in small paper candy cups (forminhas).

• Arranged neatly on dessert platters or dessert tables at birthday parties and celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles (for coating)

• Extra butter for greasing hands

Directions

• Combine sweetened condensed milk, sifted cocoa powder, and unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.

• Stir continuously with a silicone spatula to prevent burning on the bottom.

• Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away cleanly from the bottom of the pan (ponto de brigadeiro).

• Pour the mixture onto a greased plate and let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

• Lightly butter your palms, scoop tablespoon-sized portions, and roll them into smooth balls.

• Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully covered and place into miniature paper liners.

Optional Variations

• Brigadeiro Gourmet: Use dark Dutch-process cocoa and high-quality chocolate curls instead of standard sprinkles.

• Beijinho Mix: Combine half a batch of Brigadeiro with half a batch of Beijinho for dual-color party displays.

Cooking Tips

• Keep heat low and stir constantly using a flat-bottomed silicone spatula to ensure smooth texture without scorching.

• Test readiness by tilting the pan; if the mixture slides off the bottom in a single mass, it is ready.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 85 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 14 g

• Protein: 2 g

• Fat: 3 g

• Saturated Fat: 2 g

• Sodium: 25 mg

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sugar: 13 g