A classic Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe makes soft, fudgy chocolate balls with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, all coated in chocolate sprinkles for a traditional Brazilian dessert.
Originally from Brazil, brigadeiros are bite-sized chocolate fudge candies often compared to truffles. Their sweetened condensed milk mixture gives them a distinct consistency without heavy cream or melted chocolate. They're a staple at Brazilian birthday parties and celebrations. Other Brazilian sweets worth trying include Brigadeiro Cake, Brigadeiro Cupcakes, and Brigadeirão.
Quick Look: Brigadeiro Recipe
- ⏱️ Prep Time: 22 minutes
- 🔥 Cook Time: 8 minutes
- ❄️ Cooling Time: At least 30 minutes
- ⏲️ Total Time: About 1 hour
- 🍬 Servings: 28 brigadeiros
- 🍫 Flavor Profile: Sweet and chocolatey
- 🥄 Texture: Soft, smooth, and fudgy
- 👌 Difficulty: Easy
- 🎉 Best For: Birthday parties, celebrations, and homemade gifts
- 🍳 Cooking Method: Stovetop or microwave
- 🥛 Key Ingredients: Sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles
- Why This Recipe Works: Sweetened condensed milk gives brigadeiros their signature fudgy texture, cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor, and butter keeps the mixture smooth. A coating of chocolate sprinkles provides a slight crunch against the soft, chewy center.
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Jump to:
- Quick Look: Brigadeiro Recipe
- What Are Brigadeiros?
- Chef's Notes from Valentina
- Ingredients
- Substitutions And Additions
- How to Make Brigadeiros
- Expert Tips for Brigadeiros
- FAQ About Homemade Brigadeiros
- Other Ways to Serve Brigadeiros
- More Brazilian Candy Recipes
- Brigadeiro Recipe (Brazilian Chocolate Balls)
- Storage and Freezing
What Are Brigadeiros?
Brigadeiros (pronounced "bree-gah-DAY-rohs") are traditional Brazilian chocolate balls made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. They're coated in chocolate sprinkles and are also known as Brazilian fudge balls or Brazilian chocolate truffles. Unlike classic chocolate truffles, which typically contain chocolate and cream, brigadeiros have a softer, chewier texture.
Popular since the 1940s, brigadeiros are a staple at Brazilian birthday parties and celebrations. Historians commonly link the candy's name to Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, a presidential candidate in Brazil's 1945 election. However, accounts of the candy's exact origins vary.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk – 14 oz (1 can). It provides the sweetness and thick, fudgy texture. Regular evaporated milk is not a direct substitute.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tablespoons. It gives the candy its chocolate flavor. You can increase the amount to ¼ cup for a richer chocolate taste, as suggested in the original recipe.
- Unsalted butter – ½ tablespoon, softened. It contributes to the smooth consistency. You'll also need a little extra to grease the plate and your hands. During hot summer weather, the original recipe recommends using just 1 teaspoon in the mixture to make the balls easier to shape.
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, optional. It adds another layer of flavor to the chocolate mixture.
- Chocolate sprinkles – enough to coat the balls. Traditional chocolate vermicelli or good-quality sprinkles work well. You can also coat the brigadeiros in finely chopped nuts.
How to Make Brigadeiros
Stovetop Brigadeiros
- Combine the ingredients: In a medium, wide, nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter. Whisk until smooth.
- Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat on a large burner. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon for about 5–8 minutes, until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the bottom of the pan. PIC. 1
Note: Scrape the bottom of the pan as you stir. The mixture is ready when you can briefly see the bottom of the pan before the chocolate mixture settles back into place. Remove from the heat and stir in the optional vanilla extract. - Cool the mixture: Transfer the cooked mixture to a greased plate. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle. PIC. 2
- Shape the brigadeiros: Lightly butter your hands. Scoop out portions with a ½-tablespoon or 1-tablespoon measure, then roll them into balls.
- Coat with sprinkles: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until completely coated. PIC. 3
- Serve or store: Place the brigadeiros in small paper candy cups and serve. If not serving immediately, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for 4–7 days, or in freezer-safe bags for up to 30 days.
Microwave Brigadeiros
- Combine the ingredients: Place the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a deep microwave-safe bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Microwave the mixture: Cook in a 900-watt microwave on full power for approximately 6 minutes. Remove the bowl and stir at least every 2 minutes, until the mixture is thick enough to roll after cooling.
Note: Do not leave the microwave unattended. The mixture can rise and bubble over, so pause whenever it rises and resume once it settles. For a 1100-watt microwave, cook at 80% power. Double batches require additional cooking time. - Add the vanilla: Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the optional vanilla extract.
- Cool the mixture: Transfer to a greased plate and let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
- Shape the brigadeiros: Lightly butter your hands. Scoop out portions with a ½-tablespoon or 1-tablespoon measure, then roll them into balls.
- Coat and serve: Roll the brigadeiros in chocolate sprinkles until completely coated. Place them in small paper candy cups.
FAQ About Homemade Brigadeiros
Cook the mixture until it thickens and pulls away from the bottom of the pan, then let it cool completely. If it's still too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Return it to the saucepan for additional cooking if necessary.
Overcooking can make brigadeiros rubbery or excessively chewy. For a slightly firm mixture, try stirring in ½–1 tablespoon of heavy cream to soften it. Severely overcooked brigadeiros may not regain their original fudgy texture.
Yes. A brigadeiro filling recipe requires a softer, spreadable consistency than the mixture used for rolled candies. Adding heavy cream keeps the filling smooth enough for cake layers and cupcakes.
Yes. Brigadeiro sauce requires a thinner, more pourable consistency than traditional rolled brigadeiros. Heavy cream can be incorporated into the chocolate mixture for a sauce suitable for drizzling over cakes and other desserts.
Other Ways to Serve Brigadeiros
- Rolled Brigadeiros: Traditional brigadeiros are bite-sized chocolate candies with a soft, fudgy center and a coating of chocolate sprinkles. They're a favorite at Brazilian birthday parties and celebrations, usually served in small paper candy cups.
- Brigadeiro de Colher: Also called brigadeiro mole, this softer, creamier variation is enjoyed straight from small cups, shot glasses, or dessert spoons. It's especially popular as an individual party dessert.
- Brigadeiro Filling and Frosting: The rich chocolate flavor of brigadeiro also works well in cakes and cupcakes. A softer, spreadable consistency makes it suitable for cake layers, frosting, and other desserts.
- Seasonal Brigadeiros: Easter, Christmas, and birthdays are great occasions for colorful brigadeiros with festive decorations. Try Patriotic Brigadeiros for another celebration-inspired variation.
- Gourmet Brigadeiros: Premium chocolate, specialty coatings, and elegant packaging make these candies popular for weddings and special occasions. Camaféu de nozes, a traditional Brazilian walnut candy coated in fondant, is another favorite at celebrations.
- Brigadeiro can also be used in cookies, tarts, trifles, and ice cream desserts, with the consistency adjusted for each preparation.
Did You Love This Recipe? If you make this recipe and love it, stop back, give it a 5-star rating ★★★★★ and leave a comment.
Brigadeiro Recipe (Brazilian Chocolate Balls)
Equipment
- 1 medium non-stick, wide saucepan
- 1 whisk
- 1 plate to cool the mixture
- ½ tablespoon to use as a measurement to roll the mixture into balls
Ingredients
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk – 1 can
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa powder
- ½ tablespoon unsalted butter – softened, plus extra for greasing the plate and hands
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – optional
- chocolate vermicelli or good-quality chocolate sprinkles – enough to coat the chocolate balls
Instructions
Stovetop Brigadeiros
- Combine the ingredients: In a medium, wide, nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter. Whisk until smooth.
- Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat on a large burner. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon for about 5–8 minutes, until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the bottom of the pan.Note: Scrape the bottom of the pan as you stir. The mixture is ready when you can briefly see the bottom of the pan before the chocolate mixture settles back into place. Remove from the heat and stir in the optional vanilla extract.
- Cool the mixture: Transfer the cooked mixture to a greased plate. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
- Shape the brigadeiros: Lightly butter your hands. Scoop out portions with a ½-tablespoon or 1-tablespoon measure, then roll them into balls.
- Coat with sprinkles: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until completely coated.
- Serve or store: Place the brigadeiros in small paper candy cups and serve. If not serving immediately, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for 4–7 days, or in freezer-safe bags for up to 30 days.
Microwave Brigadeiros
- Combine the ingredients: Place the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a deep microwave-safe bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Microwave the mixture: Cook in a 900-watt microwave on full power for approximately 6 minutes. Remove the bowl and stir at least every 2 minutes, until the mixture is thick enough to roll after cooling.Note: Do not leave the microwave unattended. The mixture can rise and bubble over, so pause whenever it rises and resume once it settles. For a 1100-watt microwave, cook at 80% power. Double batches require additional cooking time.
- Add the vanilla: Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the optional vanilla extract.
- Cool the mixture: Transfer to a greased plate and let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
- Shape the brigadeiros: Lightly butter your hands. Scoop out portions with a ½-tablespoon or 1-tablespoon measure, then roll them into balls.
- Coat and serve: Roll the brigadeiros in chocolate sprinkles until completely coated. Place them in small paper candy cups.
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
-
Increase the unsweetened cocoa powder from 2 tablespoons to ¼ cup for a richer chocolate flavor.
-
During summer, reduce the butter to 1 teaspoon to help the brigadeiros hold their shape when rolling.
-
Let the mixture cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Lightly butter your hands before shaping the balls.
Storage and Freezing
Room Temperature: Store brigadeiros in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent the chocolate coating from softening. Refrigerate: Keep the candies in an airtight container for 4–7 days. Refrigeration makes the centers firmer. Let them sit briefly at room temperature before serving for a softer, fudgier texture. Freezer: Freeze brigadeiros in sealed freezer bags or freezer-safe containers for up to 30 days. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator, then allow them to soften slightly before serving.Nutrition
** Nutrition labels on easyanddelish.com are for educational purposes only. This info is provided as a courtesy and is only an estimate, since the nutrition content of recipes can vary based on ingredient brand or source, portion sizes, recipe changes/variations, and other factors. We suggest making your own calculations using your preferred calculator, based on which ingredients you use, or consulting with a registered dietitian to determine nutritional values more precisely.
Please note that health-focused and diet information provided on easyanddelish.com is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Consult with your doctor or other qualified health professional prior to initiating any significant change in your diet or exercise regimen, or for any other issue necessitating medical advice.
Did you make this recipe?
Comment and rate the recipe. Also follow us on Pinterest at @easyanddelish for more delish recipes.This post was published on May 21, 2019.
I made these brigadeiros and my family loved them. We couldn't have enough of them. Making them again soon for my daughter's birthday party.
Wonderful to make and give as a hostess gift.
Thank you Yes these brigadeiros make a great edible gift!
I’ve actually had these because I have a friend of a friend who is from. Brazil. They’re very good! Thanks for the recipe.
Hi mimi! I am so happy you tried our brigadeiros and enjoyed them! They are as iconic in Brazil as brownies are in the USA.
We both love everything chocolate loaded. This one seems to become one o four favourites for holidays! Thank you and God bless!
Muito obrigada, Denise!! Bem delicioso!
My husband is Brazilian and I, being American, have been trying to preserve and share what I can of his Brazilian heritage for our kids. This (as well as several of your other recipes like Pao de Mel) has been a wonderful addition to our household birthday celebrations (and they come out PERFECT every time!) and I hope our kids can continue to enjoy and pass on these recipes someday in their own families. <3
Hi, Chelsea! You made my day! I am so glad to find out this brigadeiro recipe (among some other Brazilian recipes) is cherished by your family. I feel the same way about my kids! I posted as many Brazilian recipes as I could hoping my daughters will cook them by themselves one day and pass them to their children. It feels my heart with joy that my recipes are part of your table and that you are trying to preserve your children's Brazilian heritage. Have a blessed week and thanks for stopping by!
The recipe is very good, the brigadeiros are wonderful sweets. Thank you for sharing with us.
It is so good to hear that! Yes this brigadeiro recipe is full proof.
Amei tudoooo! Brigadeiro é vida!!!
Brigadeiros é minha paixão, como eu amo isso <3
Nossa eu amo brigadeiros, obrigado pelas dicas <3
Brigadeiros are my new favorite dessert. Thanks for the tips, Denise. I got these right at the very first time.
It was my first time trying these brigadeiros. I saw on You Tube and could not resist. Making again soon.
the best brigadeiro recipe on the internet, Denise! The tips really helped me. I have tried other blogs recipe for brigadeiros but they were a complete failure. Thanks for helping me get the right consistency. My kids have been begging me to make these again.
these brigadeiros are addictive. I made them for my daughter's b-day party and they disappeared quickly. She has been asking me to make them again for no special occasion. 🙂
Muito legal o artigo, parabéns.
I did this time by microwave to test and girl got very good. Thank you great recipe!
Made these today and they were a hit with my boys. I had been passively looking for some quality jimmies and came across some last weekend.
Hi Kelly! I am so happy to find out your boys enjoyed our brigadeiros. Depending on how you decorate them, they make also a great treat for Halloween and other occasions. Thanks for the review! Have a great week!
I'm going to try making these around the holidays when my diet ends! These look delicious!
I do have one question though; will using half tablespoons to roll balls make 28 servings, or will using full tablespoons make 28 servings?
Thanks in advanced! I'm excited to make them!
To make around 28 balls, please use the 1/2 TBSP. If you would like to, you can also use 1 teaspoon to make them smaller. It depends on the size of your bonbon cups. Enjoy! These are a family favorite.
I cant wait try this recipe is realy yummy
Enjoy. So good!
Wow, that sucks, these brigadier. I can not wait to do it, it seems easy and very tasty. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe.
I'm so excited to see these! My girlfriend has a friend from Brazil, and once she brought these over. So I know how good these are - and addicting!!!
Yum! I can't wait to make this!
Thank you! Enjoy them, a log-time fave treat of mine.
Sweet Heavens ! Have seen these on Instagram ! Definitely will make 🙂 🙂 🙂
Thank you. It is one of my childhood's fave treats.
Such a great recipe! Glad you "made" these again. 🙂
Thank you. We refreshed the post and republished an oldie but goodie recipe.
Oi Denise! I am Brazilian but I live in Florida and have been trying several of your recipes. Your brigadeiro recipe is the best. I can get the consistency right every single time thanks to your tips. Cooking our food makes me not miss Brazil so much. Have a great week!
Brigadeiro. So delicious. Love it!
Thank you! Enjoy!
I love brigadeiro. Congratulations skin recipe I'm going to do today.
Sou brasileira e amo seus posts! I Love Brigadeiros! BJSSSS 🙂
Obrigada Francieli! Um abraco pra voce.
how delicious ! i'll do it at home
Thank Roberta! Enjoy these childhood treats. My favorite!
These are completely addictive! They just fly off the plate until no more are left. Your method for making these is so easy-- nice that you have a video showing the process.
Hi!
Does the recipe work well if i double it?
I am planning on making them for a Christmas party
Hi, Beti! Yes, you can double the recipe, no problem.
In this case, just be sure to use only 1 TBSP butter for each can of sweetened condensed milk. In addition, use a wider pan instead of a tall one; otherwise it will take much longer for them to cook.
If it is your first time making brigadeiros, follow the tips in my video to achieve the correct consistency. The consistency is the key to getting the "dough" to roll into balls without problems. If you have any other questions, I will be happy to answer.
Impossible not to love brigadeiro, congratulations for the post!
Adorei seu post. Sou brasileira e realmente os brigadeiros são nossa paixão.
only sweet, delicious, parabens,
Impossible not to love brigadeiro, congratulations for the post!
The brigadiers are one of the most delicious gourmet sweets in Brazil, including it is very common to have several courses of brigadiers Goumet that help those who want to undertake making brigadiers gourmet to sell.
I loved the tips of your site!
Adoro brigadeiro, seu post é sensasional com ótimas dicas.
How easy and delicious is this! I have three chocolate lovers at home, this is perfect for them.
I have to try them, never had them before. Great recipe, thanks for sharing.
The brazilians know their stuff! these brigadeiros are a food of the gods!
I live brigadeiros and your look superb! I'm saving this recipe!
best,
Enri
Loved the recipe! I will for sure make this at home tonight
Love love love!!!!
Muito bom esses brigadeiros, é incrível como um doce tão simples poder ter tantas variedades.
Sou chocolatra de carteirinha,sou realmente viciada em BRIGADEIRO e amo dicas de receitas sobre eles❤️ amei seu blog e esse artigo então me conquistou.
Bom sou suspeito a falar do assunto, amo brigadeiro.
Achei ótimas suas dicas, está de parabéns pelo post e obrigado por compartilhar.
Muito bom, gostei do artigo! bem explicativo
Brigadeiros simples e divino! Adoro seus posts acompanho sempre!
Ola, fiquei imprecionado com o que aprende no seu site e já comentei com
com minha esposa para ficar lendo suas dica e aprender mais como você muito
obrigado amigo .
Muito legal seu site, receitas incríveis, bom e sou leiga a falar pois amo chocolate.
obrigada!!!
Since consistency seems to be the
main problem for most people when making this candy, can the mixture be tested
in water? Perhap it is:, "soft ball" when you are able to pick mixture up..
Hi, Donna! I have never tested the consistency that way but it does not hurt to try. If you follow all the tips from my cooking video, you are able to make this right at first. If you take a look at my You Tube channel, there is one comment from a lady that made a 300-batch of these (actually, according to her 2 children made the batch right at the very first time just by following my tips). I am telling, the tips guarantee success and you wont find anywhere else.
Amo muito essa receita de brigadeiro! Adoreiiii!
Sou apaixonada por brigadeiro. Muito esse artigo
I loved the recipe thanks for sharing to be a delight.
Menos Guerra, Mais Brigadeiro! Não tem como não ficar babando! Amo brigadeiro
Congratulations, Here in Brazil, the brasilians love it. The brigadeiros gourmet is the best.
Thanks for charing.
Nossa amo brigadeiro .. Belo artigo deu agua na boca ..
I love Brigadiers. I'm from Brazil and I loved your article. Congratulations!
I love brigadeiros with nust!
What is "chocolate vermicelli"? Can I just subsitute sprinkles?
Disregard earlier comment- My only question is can I subsitute the chocolate vermicelli for generic sprinkles?
Yes, absolutely! My suggestion is to buy good quality chocolate sprinkles.
Maravilhosa receita e decoração muito inspiradora! Parabéns pelo seu trabalho!!
Obrigado por suas maravilhosas receitas.
Thanks for your wonderful recipes. The Brazilian Brigadeiros are undeniable
It sounds very delicious, brazilian food is so fucking good! Thanks for sharing this =)
Olha estou apaixonada por este site Receitas deliciosa estou preparando minhas receitas que peguei deste site Esta de parabéns o site muito bem explicado Obrigado por compartilhar estas delicias....
Brigadeiro is a lovely recipe
Very easy to make and are absolutely delicious. I recommend having enough ingredients on hand to make a double batch .....I made them for dessert for a dinner party but had to make another batch because I could not keep MY family away from them!!
So glad to hear it, Cheryl!!!! It is a true family favorite -- my hubby and kids go crazy every time I make these.
Enjoy and have a marvelous day!!!
So great! I want to make of course
Very good tip!! 🙂
I love brigadeiros, very good.
Amo muito essa página!
Me ajuda demais. Obrigada
I love Brigadeiros too <3<3
Brigadeiros: From Brazil to the world. I love them!
As a brigadier can commit to help both mental health ... rs. I Love!
Very nice! I love brigaderios.
Adoro as dicas de brigadeiro...sigo todas!!!
Hi,
Thank you so much for the recipe. I made them tonight I'm not sure I got the right consistency. Are they suppose to be soft and creamy like a truffle or a little chewy? Mine are a little chewy.
Regardless, they taste great!
Hi, Jeannie!
They have more a consistency of a truffle yet fudgy. If yours were a bit chewy it is because the "dough" was overcooked. The secret is to have it cooked on medium to medium low heat, stirring constantly. As soon as you see the mixture was thickened and the bottom of the pan shows up for a couple of seconds before levels out, it is ready. Please, take a look at our video that it is above the recipe. Thank you for trying though! I am so happy that you enjoyed them despite of their chewy consistency. You will see! You will get right on the second time. Brigadeiros are a simple recipe although getting the consistency right can be a little tricky. It takes a bit of practice. Have a wonderful week!
Brigadier is my passion my favorite candy was worth the tips and recipes
Sou do Brasil e adoro suas receitas.
I love brigadeiro ... hummm just thinking about mouthwatering !!!
Suas Maravilhosas receitas aumentam as possibilidade de novas empreendedoras aprenderem, ainda mais, parabenz.
Very cool blog, amazing recipe, I'll put it into practice here at home.
thank you
I love Brigadiers! A delight! Congratulations on the site
These are so good!
These are very good!
Brigadeiro é tudo de bom! Tem gostinho de infância... 🙂
hey,
i tried to do it, but i got brigadeiro with a texture of a toffee candy what could have been the problem?
thanks
Hi, Rony! Recipe has to be followed religiously. This is a fudge so it has to be cooked slow and just enough (see time stated in the recipe) to get a thick consistency. Please watch the video as well. It contains important tips on how to achieve the right consistency.
Hi. Do you know where I can get those colorful little balls to cover the brigadero in?
Hi, Kris! Those ones were brought from Brazil but you can find similar ones here: https://www.google.com/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=lShXWMDLJcvM8Af3qK7YDA&gws_rd=ssl,cr&fg=1#q=colorful+sprinkles
Thank you for stopping by!
Ok thank you
I love Brazilian Chocolate Fudge balls. They are to die for!
I love Brazilian Chocolate Fudge balls
I Love Brazilian Fudge Balls
I Love these Brazilian Fudge Balls
Thank you! They're soo good! I just wanted to make a little bit, so I made half of everything in the recipe. They came out perfect! I want to use them in every single dessert!
Yara: I am so happy to hear that! I hope you have the chance to make brigadeiros many more times. Enjoy!!!
Brigadeiros are a little piece of heaven on earth!!! We make them at least once a month!!! Sometimes I substitute the sprinkles for dark cocoa powder. My daugther doesn't even make the balls... she just eats it as soon as it cools!
For us too, Soraya! When I don't find good quality sprinkles, I like to roll them out in granulated sugar. Cocoa powder is also a great choice! My eldest daughter and I love to eat them by spoonfuls as soon as they cool down. 🙂
I'd love to make these for the Rio opening ceremonies tonight but I only have salted butter. Will it change the taste a lot?
It will change the taste only a bit but they will still be delicious. Enjoy!
Ameiiii o seu site! Amo brigadeiros, parabéns pelo trabalho! bjs
Finally got around to making these --- AWESOME - brought a batch into work today -- they LOVE LOVE LOVE them... making more this weekend to share with other various folks!
Hi, Allison! Your comment made my day. I am so glad you and your co-workers loved this Brazilian treat. Wishing you a delicious weekend, enjoying this childhood fave of mine.
Very nice! I love brigaderios.
So good! I made a version of these and shared them on my blog (with credit of course!). Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for trying brigadeiros and linking back to me. I am so glad that you enjoyed them!
Hi denise, this brigadeiros look so delicous and unique i would love to try it!
You won't regret it, Gabrielle! But please, follow the recipe instructions. If you have a medium, non stick skillet, please use it to cook these brigadeiros because the "dough" cooks faster in wider pans.Please, also make sure the "dough" has thicken and runs slow. The cooking time varies from one stovetop to the other. Enjoy!!!
Hi Denise!
I tried rolling it in a ball after i had put it in the fridge for 3 hours but it was so hard to roll it.
I now have put it in the fridge for a day.
Will that work?
Hi, Gabrielle. I have just seen your comment.
If after all this time in the fridge you could not roll brigadeiros into balls, it's because you did not cook the mixture enough to get the right consistency. This is a critical step for brigadeiros. When this happens, the alternative is to serve brigadeiros pipped on spoons or into shot glasses/cups to be eaten with small spoons-- like we do in Brazil. Later today or tomorrow, I will be uploading a cooking video that I recorded about brigadeiros and you will have a better idea about the right consistency -- better than the recipe direction pictures that you see here. I give all the tips how to get the right consistency every time and also how to achieve it quicker -- so next time you make brigadeiros you will be able to roll them easily.
Know that not getting the right consistency at first is not uncommon. Thank you for trying!
I just made these using your microwave version! The "dough" tended to rise up every 30 seconds, so what I did when that happened was take it out and stir before putting it back in. After it was done I melted 3 slivers of butter on a big plate, then poured a tiny bit of vanilla extract on that and spread the melted butter and vanilla around the whole plate with the round side of a spoon. After I rolled the truffles I dropped them in cocoa instead of sprinkles! They're currently setting in the fridge, but they look and smell HEAVENLY!
Hi, Isaac! Thank you for the visit and nice feedback. I hope you enjoy this long-time fave of mine.
They were amazing! The cocoa, it was a bit much, so I dipped the truffles in milk chocolate and rolled them in powdered sugar. Delicious! I'll be making more for my boyfriend and I tonight! Thank you so much for sharing this delicious recipe!
Thank you again, Isaac! It makes me happy seeing people trying and enjoying new recipes. Have an awesome weekend!
Hi love the recipe but I keep getting bits in my brigadeiro, like some of the cocoa powder is clumping togeter into small bits. Any idea as to how to remedy this?
Hi, Jordan!
I see. No worries! It's pretty easy to solve this issue. What you have to do is to whisk well the sweetened condensed milk with the cocoa powder until obtaining a homogeneous mixture before cooking. It helps if you add the cocoa powder little by little while whisking. Then, add the butter and cook the mixture according to the instructions. Enjoy!
Thank you so much for responding Denise!! I will give it a try! They were still loved and with the sprinkles no one noticed the bits, but I sure am glad to have a solution!! These are so tasty and my husband loves that they are not as overly sweet and you would think they would be!
Hi Denise, can you freeze Brigadeiro?
Hi, Wendy! Absolutely! But for this, you can make the brigadeiro "dough", let cool at room temp, roll them, and freeze in a ziploc bag... but please only roll the brigadeiro balls in the sprinkles once thawed.
I was introduced to Brigadeiro the other day by my friend Átila (from North East Brazil) and fell in love immediately, I have just tried this recipe and it tastes fantastic! I think this is going to mean I have to step up the effort at the gym, but it's well worth it!
Hi, Kent!
I am so glad that you stopped by. I am also from Northeastern Brazil.
Brigadeiro is the most popular and beloved "candy" in/from Brazil, present at every single birthday party and other celebrations... It is also one of the fave snacks down there. At my household, we love it so much that we don't wait to have brigadeiros rolled into balls. We eat brigadeiro by spoonfuls. 🙂
Since you learned how to make brigadeiros (and they can be very addictive as you already know), I wish you good luck. 🙂
Have a great week -- and exercise routine! 🙂
They look amazing!!
Thanks a lot, Stacy! Enjoy...
Hello! I saw a video of Facebook about making these. I thought I remembered it right, and tried it today. But I remembered that it said to use half a stick of butter, and no vanilla. Then I rolled them in more cocoa, sort of truffle-style even though I saw in the video to use white sugar. They are a little soft, but I think it's the way they should be?
THEN I experimented with another batch, and used flavored hot chocolate instead of cocoa. They are super-soft, and after I rolled them they turned into disks instead of balls! LOL Do you know if the rest of the ingredients in the hot chocolate messed it up, or maybe I just didn't cook that batch long enough? I want to play with other hot chocolate flavors, but don't want to keep making disks...
Hi, Peggy!
About 13 years ago when I got married and came to live in the US, I tried to make mine with hot cocoa mix. It was a disaster!!! Honestly, the texture was not the same as the brigadeiros from my home country. Hot cocoa mix simply does not work for brigadeiros because contains a lot of sugar changing their fudgy texture. You have to use cocoa powder which is made from ground chocolate solids. Too much butter also makes them too soft and flat. Follow my recipe, which it is the traditional recipe for brigadeiros, and will get them right. The vanilla extract is optional. I added it to the traditional recipe because it makes them more delicious without changing the texture. Brigadeiros are traditionally rolled in chocolate sprinkles but a few folks roll them in white granulated sugar when they don't have chocolate sprinkles in their pantry. If you would like to play with flavors, you can use my recipe omitting the cocoa powder and vanilla, and adding flavoring extracts instead. This way you will have white brigadeiros with different flavors (e.g. almond flavor b/c almond extract). Another good way to play with flavors is flavored gelatins. In Brazil, there is a strawberry brigadeiro recipe. Instead of using cocoa powder, we use strawberry gelatin to give both color and flavor to the strawberry brigadeiros (in this case, if the recipe asks for 2-3 Tbsp of cocoa powder, you use 2-3 Tbsp strawberry gelatin instead). Let me know if you have any other questions. Have a great week!
Que tal uma receita em espanhol então?
Just kidding, this is one of the better blogs I have seen for Brigadeiros. How do you say, they are pra caramba.
LOL... Thanks a lot, Donald!
Wishing you a delicious week -- as delicious as these brigadeiros!!! 😉
How many does this make?
Hi, Nancy!
Yield can be seen right above the ingredients in the recipe. It makes about 28 brigadeiros or chocolate "truffles".
Have a great week!
I'm sorry, did not see that. I made my first batch and they are fabulous!
Can I double the recipe without any problems or should I make two batches separately?
(I am trying to make enough to share with everyone at work)
No problem, Nancy!
Yes, you can double the recipe without problems. I do this all the time because it is a family favorite. 🙂 They disappear pretty quick at my household. My eldest daughter and I don't even wait to roll them into balls... We eat brigadeiro by spoonfuls! 🙂
But by doubling the recipe, it will take a little longer to be cooked (NOT the double of the original time). Follow the recipe guidelines and everything will be fine. I hope your co-workers enjoy these brigadeiros. Have a great week!
My daughters and I are currently studying South America in our homeschool studies. Our first stop was Brazil! Thank you so much for the delicious recipe and fun background!
Thank you for your interest in Brazil and for trying this recipe. I am happy that you enjoyed brigadeiros, a real family favorite.
Hi Denise, great treat! How about adding it to the Food on Friday: Holiday Treats collection over at Carole's Chatter? Cheers
Sure, Carole! I'd love to... How can this recipe be added your Food on Friday? Do you submit its link or do I have to submit it? Please, let me know.
Thanks for stopping by.
I made brigadeiro during the world cup... they're SO addicting!
Hi, Sharon!!! I know... Every single time that I make them, my family and I eat them like there is no tomorrow. We love brigadeiros so much that we make not only the fudge balls (which many times we don't even roll -- we eat by spoonfuls), but also roll cake, frosting, mousses, etc. 🙂
My mom and I used to make these together when I was a kid. I helped roll them, but we used granulated sugar. After decades, I had forgotten how to make them. Thanks so much for the recipe. It all came back to me just reading the ingredients.
I was also looking for a sweet potato candy recipe - docs de batata. Do you have one? I'll continue to look on your site. Is another candy mom and I used to make together. So you can see why I absolutely need it 🙂
Hi, Sandra! Thanks for stopping by and welcome to FBTY...
I am glad that you found this brigadeiro recipe. I hope you make these and enjoy... This is the traditional recipe! Chocolate sprinkle are usually used to roll brigadeiros although colorful sprinkles, granulated sugar, and others can also be used to top them. It's really up to one' s taste.
Unfortunately, I don't have any recipe for sweet potato candy (docinho de batata). What I do have is a pumpkin candy recipe or pumpkin brigadeiro which you can use it to make the sweet potato candy. You only have to use peeled, boiled, and mashed sweet potatoes instead of mashed or canned pumpkin. It is an easy substitution. Here is the link:
https://www.frombraziltoyou.org/pumpkin-brigadeiros-brigadeiro-abobora/
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!!
Oh my! Oh my! I think my heart just skipped a beat! I love everything about these fudge balls. I have never been to Brazil but I'm sure I could fly over just so I can stuff my face with a few dozens of these!
they look amazing! Love the colorful sprinkles!
Thanks for bringing them to this month's #chocolateparty
Thanks, Roxana! The great think about these fudge balls is you can make them at home -- not tickets necessary... They are ridiculously simple and quick.
It is a pleasure to participate in your chocolate party. Congrats on its second anniversary and success!
I'm so glad to see this recipe. A friend tried to teach me how to make them but it's all wrong for me without measurements.
Ava:
My fave way to make brigadeiro is on the stove top because one can have better control of its cooking point. Follow the recipe and let it cool before rolling into balls. If necessary, refrigerate the "dough" for about 20 minutes before rolling into balls. Always grease your hands with unsalted butter before rolling. It helps a lot! You can use this same recipe to make brigadeiro served into mini cups or brigadeiro frosting to fill and top cakes and cupcakes.For this, you only have to add a bit of heavy cream after the brigadeiro dough has cooked to make it much softer. Enjoy!
Hi, Denise! I love your recipes because they remind me of Brasil!
I have a question. When I lived there, a special treat was bolo de brigadeiro (I think!). It was a delicious chocolate cake with brigadeiro frosting. Do you know what I'm remembering? I hope you can tell me what it was and how to make it. Abracos!
Hi, Margie! Thanks a lot. Yes!!! The brigadeiro cake is a simple two to three-layer chocolate cake with both brigadeiro filling and topping. Although I haven't published a brigadeiro cake recipe on my blog, I have a recipe for brigadeiro cupcakes. Make a simple chocolate cake and use the homemade brigadeiro frosting that is in the post (link) below to fill and top your cake. Then, sprinkle chocolate sprinkles or vermicelli on top. If you will be making the cake using a cake mix, please double the amount of eggs stated in the box so your cake can be heavy enough to support the weight of the brigadeiro frosting without collapsing. I would also add more sugar (1/2 to 3/4 cup) to make it more similar to the traditional Brazilian cake. Of course, for a cake, you will have to double or triple the frosting recipe depending on the the amount of layers and size of the cake. Here is the link:
https://www.frombraziltoyou.org/brigadeiro-cupcakes/
Wishing you a great week! Thanks for stopping by.
Mine came out too soft, what did I do wrong?
Hi, Denise! I am so sorry. The brigadeiro " dough" is ready (fully cooked) when it has thickened enough to see the bottom of the pan while pulled aside with a wood spoon and also is running slow. When it cools down it will be even thicker.
But since yours is already soft, what you can do is using this trick: Let it cool down into a greased plate at room temperature and then, place in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes. Then, grease your hands with unsalted butter, and try to shape into small balls, roll with sprinkles, and place into bonbon cups. You can serve them slightly chilled. In Brazil, we also serve brigadeiro in cups. I mean, we make soft brigadeiro and pour into mini to small cups/glasses, decorate with sprinkles on the top, and serve with spoons. We call "brigadeiro de copo" (brigadeiro in cups).
So do not worry! In general, it takes about 2 to 3 times to get brigadeiro ' dough" right. I hope this helps!
Perfect - I do not have chocolate vermicellis. Will use hot chocolate powder, instant type. Or ground toasted nuts. But now I see the cups with a spoon, perfect. If they do not firm up, will be shamlessly perfect candy anyway. Love the flavor, very mild and creamy.
I am so glad you enjoy these brigadeiros, Essa! Absolutely!!! If you don't have vermicelli, you can use chopped nuts, chopped candy cane, shredded coconut, another type of sprinkles, etc instead. If necessary, you can refrigerate the "dough" before rolling them. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year!
I had the same problem. I followed a different recipe using only 1 tablespoon of butter and I had no problems.
Amy, the problem is not the amount of butter in my recipe but rather getting the right consistency for the brigadeiros. If the amount of butter was a problem, why have mine always come out right (not soft)? I always use this same recipe and roll them without any problem. Please, watch my video and you can see several of the factors that can affect the doneness for brigadeiros.
Denise! Achei seu blog hoje e estou pinning como louca! Menina, quanta receita boa! Que saudade me da'!
Sou do Ceara e moro na California faz onze anos. Seus brigadeiros de Natal sao lindos. Ontem mesmo estava falando que esse ano vou fazer brigadeiro para todo mundo no Natal.
Parabens pelo maravilhoso blog. Um abraco
Obrigada por suas palavras e por compartilhar as minhas receitas, Ana Paula! Bem-vinda a FBTY!!!! Espero que você nos visite com frequência. Um abraço.
I love these!!!!
Thanks, Jessica! Enjoy!
Ah, Denise! Reading your article about Brigadeiros made my mouth water and my mind travel in time as I remembered many birthdays parties and lots and lots of "docinhos" and especially Brigadeiros. You are so correct: it is not a birthday party if you do not have a lots of Brigadeiros present, ready make every mouth happy! Thank you for the thoughts.
Sofia Newton
Thanks so much, Sofia! I am happy to know that brought you good memories...
I am brazilian too, and Brigadeiro it's my favorite desert!
Made these for a school auction! They went for $250 and the buyers loved them! They are unbelievably delicious!
Becky: I am so glad that the buyers loved them and you too. They are my childhood's favorite candy. Wishing you a marvelous week!