Brigadeiros are a beloved Brazilian treat, often served at celebrations and special occasions. These fudgy, bite-sized chocolate truffles are made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and a pinch of salt, creating a rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth experience. Once cooked, the mixture is rolled into small balls and coated in chocolate sprinkles or other toppings for an irresistible sweet bite. Brigadeiros are easy to make, require only a few ingredients, and are perfect for satisfying a chocolate craving or serving as a sweet snack at parties.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles (for rolling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes, until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. The texture should be thick enough that you can scrape the bottom of the pan and see it briefly.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly, about 5-10 minutes. If desired, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Form the Brigadeiros: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut (roughly 1 inch in diameter).
- Coat the Brigadeiros: Roll the chocolate balls in chocolate sprinkles to coat them completely. You can also experiment with other toppings, like crushed nuts or coconut flakes, if desired.
- Serve: Arrange the brigadeiros on a serving plate and let them set for about 30 minutes to firm up. They can be served at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
Brigadeiros are an easy, indulgent treat that captures the essence of Brazilian sweets. Their rich, chocolatey flavor and smooth texture make them an irresistible snack or dessert for any occasion.
