These classic Brazilian brigadeiros are rich, fudgy chocolate truffles that are simple to make and perfect for celebrations or everyday treats. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can create bite-sized sweets that are smooth, chocolatey, and completely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Brigadeiros are incredibly easy to prepare and require no baking at all. They come together in one saucepan, making cleanup minimal. Their creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor make them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. They’re also ideal for parties, holidays, or gifting because they look beautiful and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing hands and dish
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup chocolate sprinkles
Directions
Add the butter to a medium-sized saucepan and melt it over medium heat.
Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder, stirring until completely smooth.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
Continue cooking for 10 to 14 minutes, until the mixture becomes very thick and starts pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Remove the saucepan from heat.
Grease an 8×8-inch dish or a plate with a lip using butter.
Pour the chocolate mixture into the dish and spread it into an even, thin layer.
Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours, until fully set.
Pour the chocolate sprinkles into a shallow bowl.
Grease your hands lightly with butter.
Scoop small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into smooth balls.
Roll each ball in the chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
Place the finished brigadeiros on a serving plate or container.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 to 24 brigadeiros, serving about 10 to 12 people.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes.
Inactive chilling time is 1 to 2 hours.
Total time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Variations
For a lighter coating, roll the brigadeiros in cocoa powder instead of sprinkles.
Add a small amount of vanilla extract to the mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Use colored sprinkles for festive occasions and themed celebrations.
Roll the brigadeiros in shredded coconut for a different texture and taste.
Storage/Reheating
Store brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
They are best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature.
Reheating is not recommended, as it can affect their texture and shape.
FAQs
What are brigadeiros made of?
Brigadeiros are made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles.
Are brigadeiros similar to truffles?
Yes, they are similar in shape and richness, but brigadeiros have a softer, creamier texture.
Can I make brigadeiros without sprinkles?
Yes, you can leave them plain or roll them in cocoa powder or shredded coconut.
Why do I need to stir constantly?
Constant stirring prevents the mixture from burning and helps it thicken evenly.
How do I know when the mixture is ready?
The mixture is ready when it becomes very thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Can I make brigadeiros ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Do brigadeiros need to be refrigerated?
Yes, refrigeration helps them keep their shape and texture.
Can I freeze brigadeiros?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can change their creamy consistency.
Are brigadeiros very sweet?
They are sweet and rich, but the cocoa powder balances the sweetness nicely.
What size should the brigadeiros be?
They are traditionally rolled into small, bite-sized balls, about the size of a walnut.
Conclusion
Brazilian brigadeiros are a timeless dessert that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. Creamy, chocolatey, and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a personal treat. Once you make them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection.
Brazilian brigadeiros are rich, fudgy chocolate truffles made with just a few simple ingredients. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet indulgence anytime.
Total Time:2 hours
Yield:20 to 24 brigadeiros
Ingredients
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing hands and dish
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup chocolate sprinkles
Instructions
Add butter to a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat.
Stir in sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder until smooth.
Cook, stirring constantly, for 10–14 minutes until thick and pulling away from sides of pan.
Remove from heat and spread mixture in a buttered 8×8-inch dish in an even layer.
Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until fully set.
Grease hands with butter and scoop small portions of the mixture.
Roll each portion into a ball and coat with chocolate sprinkles.
Place finished brigadeiros on a serving plate or container and refrigerate until serving.
Notes
Try rolling in cocoa powder or shredded coconut instead of sprinkles.
Add vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
Use colored sprinkles for festive occasions.
Keep hands slightly greased to make rolling easier and neater.
