20 Mar 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 140 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp dry cocoa powder
1.50 cups condensed milk
Brigadeiros, also known as Brazilian fudge balls, are a beloved treat in Brazil that are both simple and delightful to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these rich, chocolatey bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them at a party or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, brigadeiros are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Workstation:
- Gather all your ingredients and necessary utensils: a medium-sized non-stick saucepan, a wooden spoon or spatula, a plate, butter for greasing your hands, and small paper candy cups (if desired) for serving.
2. Mix Ingredients:
- Place the butter, cocoa powder, and condensed milk into the saucepan. Make sure to use a non-stick saucepan to prevent the mixture from sticking and burning.
3. Cook the Mixture:
- Set the saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. Scrape the sides and bottom of the pan regularly.
- Cook the mixture until it thickens and starts to pull away from the sides and bottom of the pan, which should take about 10-15 minutes. The consistency should be thick and fudgy.
4. Cool the Mixture:
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or bowl to cool. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature. You can speed up the cooling process by placing it in the refrigerator.
5. Shape the Brigadeiros:
- Once the mixture is cool, grease your hands with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture using a spoon or your hands, and roll them into 1-inch balls.
6. Optional: Coat the Brigadeiros:
- Traditionally, brigadeiros are rolled in chocolate sprinkles or other coatings such as desiccated coconut, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar.
- Roll each brigadeiro in the coating of your choice until well covered.
7. Serve:
- Place the decorated fudge balls in small paper candy cups for an elegant presentation.
8. Store:
- Brigadeiros can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips:
- Keep stirring the mixture constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Let the mixture cool completely before attempting to roll into balls to ensure the right consistency.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for a short time before rolling.
- Store brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Brigadeiros are a simple yet decadent treat that captures the essence of Brazilian confectionery. With a few straightforward steps and some basic ingredients, you can make these delicious fudge balls at home. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later; either way, they are sure to bring a touch of sweetness to your day.