Indulge in our brigadeiros recipe, featuring rich and fudgy Brazilian chocolate balls that melt in your mouth and deliver a touch of sweetness to any party.
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Discover the joy of making the best birthday party treat with this easy and delicious brigadeiros recipe.
These Brazilian chocolate balls, often referred to as Brazilian fudge truffles, are a beloved treat that adds a touch of sweetness and a lot of flavor to any occasion.
In this guide, you'll learn how to make brigadeiros, explore variations, and get answers to the most FAQs. Let's dive into the world of these delectable chocolate delights!
How to Make Brigadeiros
Making brigadeiros is a straightforward process. It requires only a few basic ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these easy Brazilian chocolate balls:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium non-stick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter. Whisk well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture: Cook the mixture over medium heat (large burner), stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to peel away/show the bottom of the pan when you scrape it with your wooden spoon (about 5-8 minutes). If you want, stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor! SEE PIC. 1
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a greased plate and let it cool for at least 30 minutes (or at room temperature). This makes it easier to handle when shaping the brigadeiros. SEE PIC. 2
- Shape the Brigadeiros: Once cooled, butter your hands slightly and scoop out small amounts of the mixture. Using a ½ or 1 tablespoon as measurement, roll them into balls.
- Coat the Brigadeiros: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated. SEE PIC. 3
- Serve or Store: Place the brigadeiros in paper cups and enjoy them. If not serving them right away, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to 7 days, or in the freezer for up to 30 days.
Variations
These Brazilian chocolate balls are very versatile. Once you master the basic recipe, you can experiment with many flavors and coatings. Here are a few common Brazilian variations:
- Flavor: pumpkin brigadeiros, coconut kisses (beijinhos), strawberry brigadeiros (moranguinho), beer brigadeiros, prune coconut candy (olho de sogra), grape brigadeiro (uvinha), glass bom bons (bala baiana), dulce de leche brigadeiros, and many others.
- Consistency: rolled into balls, served in cups, or used as fillings and frostings for cakes and cupcakes.
- Seasonal: patriotic candy and decorated for Easter, Christmas, etc
- Gourmet: Using premium ingredients with an elegant presentation, they come in little parcels that resemble jewelry boxes, perfect for weddings. A perfect example of this is camaféu de nozes, walnut fudge balls covered with fondant.
- Use in or on other treats: brigadeiro cake, brigadeiro cupcakes, brigadeiro cookies, trifles, Brigadeirao (flan), ice cream, and brigadeiro tart.
Feel free to get creative and try different ingredients to make your brigadeiros recipe unique!
Ingredients
To make brigadeiros, you'll need:
- Sweetened condensed milk: This is the base of the brigadeiro mixture, providing the sweet and creamy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For a rich chocolate flavor!
- Unsalted butter: This helps to give them a smooth texture. TIP: If preparing this brigadeiro recipe in the summertime, use just 1 teaspoon of butter in the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls without deforming.
- Pure vanilla extract: Although it is optional, it will boost flavor!
- Chocolate sprinkles: For coating them and adding a delightful crunch. If you don’t have them in your pantry, don’t worry! You may replace it with chopped nuts.
Pronunciation
Wondering how to pronounce "brigadeiros"? It’s pronounced "bree-gah-day-ros". The name comes from the Portuguese language, reflecting the treat’s Brazilian origins.
Pro Tips for Making Brigadeiros Recipe
To ensure your brigadeiros turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Combine the ingredients well: Whisk the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter until the mixture contains no lumps.
- Stir Constantly: As you cook the mixture, make sure to stir continuously to avoid burning.
- Use the Right Pan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan works best as it distributes heat evenly. In addition, a wider pan will cook this brigadeiros recipe much faster than a deep pan.
- Cook over medium heat: Don’t hurry up the cooking process by using high heat. It will burn the mixture!
- Let the Mixture Cool: Allow the mixture to cool on a greased plate thoroughly before shaping it into balls. It will allow the mixture to be shaped easily and prevent it from sticking to your hands.
- Butter Your Hands: Lightly buttering your hands makes rolling the brigadeiros easier and less sticky.
- Alternative serving to soft brigadeiros: In Brazil, when the texture is too soft, there are a couple of common fixes: Serving in shot glasses or other little cups (brigadeiro mole or de colher), or piping onto little serving spoons.
FAQs
Brigadeiros (or Brigadiers in literal translation) are the most beloved candy in Brazil, although they are technically chocolate fudge balls. In fact, people enjoy them across the entire country, from north to south. As a result, they have become a true national favorite. They first appeared in the 1940s, most likely in São Paulo. At that time, they were named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, who once ran for president.
First, cook the mixture until it thickens noticeably. Then scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. If you can see the bottom of the pan for a moment as you stir, the mixture is ready. After cooling to room temperature, the mixture should be thick enough to form into balls without spreading out and getting flattened.
Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to one week. Another option is to freeze them for up to 30 days.
For a dairy-free version, you can use sweetened condensed coconut milk or other plant-based condensed milk alternatives. Keep in mind this may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
If the mixture is too soft to roll into balls, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Then check the consistency. If it is still too runny, cook it a little longer until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the bottom of the pan.
If you undercook the mixture, it will be too soft and may not hold its shape. However, if you overcook it, the brigadeiros can become rubbery or chewy. To fix this, stir in a small amount of heavy cream—about ½ to 1 tablespoon. As a result, the mixture will soften while still remaining firm enough to roll into balls.
The key to avoiding a lumpy texture is proper mixing. First, whisk the condensed milk and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth. Then add the butter and heat the pan.
PIN AND ENJOY!
Brigadeiros 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 or 1 can
- 2 tablespoon baking cocoa powder unsweetened ( you may use ¼ cup instead for a richer treat)
- ½ tablespoon unsalted butter (softened) plus extra to grease plate and hands. TIP: If preparing our brigadeiros recipe in the summertime, use just 1 teaspoon of butter in the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls without deforming.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract OPTIONAL
- Chocolate vermicelli or good quality chocolate sprinkles Enough to cover the chocolate balls
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium non-stick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter. Whisk well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture: Cook the mixture over medium heat (large burner), stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to peel away/show the bottom of the pan when you scrape it with your wooden spoon (about 5-8 minutes). If you want, stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor!
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a greased plate and let it cool for at least 30 minutes (or at room temperature). This makes it easier to handle when shaping the brigadeiros.
- Shape the Brigadeiros: Once cooled, butter your hands slightly and scoop out small amounts of the mixture. Using a ½ or 1 tablespoon as measurement, roll them into balls.
- Coat the Brigadeiros: Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
- Serve or Store: Place the brigadeiros in paper cups and enjoy them. If not serving them right away, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can be also stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-7 days, or frozen in Ziploc bags for up to 30 days.
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
- Follow the instructions above on how to mix the ingredients in a deep microwave-safe bowl.
- If your microwave is 900 watts, let the mixture cook on full power for about 6 minutes -- removing and stirring at least every 2 minutes, or until thick enough to be rolled (when it cools down, the mixture will be thicker).
- While it is cooking, do not leave the microwave unattended because the mixture will rise and possibly bubble over, making a mess. Every time it rises, pause until the mixture settles back down. If 1100 watts, cook at 80 % power. Double batches take more time to cook.
- Then follow the steps above for how to cool, roll, and serve brigadeiros.
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.
This post was published on May 21, 2019.
Thiago says
I love Brazilian Chocolate Fudge balls
Thiago says
I Love Brazilian Fudge Balls
Thiago says
I Love these Brazilian Fudge Balls
Yara says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
Yara: I am so happy to hear that! I hope you have the chance to make brigadeiros many more times. Enjoy!!!
Soraya Gonzalez says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
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. 🙂
Morgan Wilson says
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?
Valentina Dimitrova says
It will change the taste only a bit but they will still be delicious. Enjoy!
Fernanda Marques says
Ameiiii o seu site! Amo brigadeiros, parabéns pelo trabalho! bjs
Allison says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
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.
Rosana says
Very nice! I love brigaderios.
cakespy says
So good! I made a version of these and shared them on my blog (with credit of course!). Thanks for sharing!
Valentina Dimitrova says
Thank you for trying brigadeiros and linking back to me. I am so glad that you enjoyed them!
Gabrielle says
Hi denise, this brigadeiros look so delicous and unique i would love to try it!
Valentina Dimitrova says
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!!!
Gabrielle says
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?
Valentina Dimitrova says
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!
Isaac Hartley says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
Hi, Isaac! Thank you for the visit and nice feedback. I hope you enjoy this long-time fave of mine.
Isaac Hartley says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
Thank you again, Isaac! It makes me happy seeing people trying and enjoying new recipes. Have an awesome weekend!
Jordan says
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?
Valentina Dimitrova says
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!
Jordan says
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!
Wendy says
Hi Denise, can you freeze Brigadeiro?
Valentina Dimitrova says
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.
Kent Taylor says
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!
Valentina Dimitrova says
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! 🙂