Brigadeiro
Indulge in the rich, sweet experience of brigadeiro, a beloved Brazilian dessert that captures the essence of celebration in every bite. Made with simple ingredients like condensed milk and cocoa powder, these chocolate truffles are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Their fudgy texture and delightful flavor make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these delightful treats that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Chocolate sprinkles for coating
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 20 brigadeiros. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 brigadeiro) contains approximately:
– Calories: 70
– Total Fat: 3.5g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Protein: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one brigadeiro.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter.
- Once cool enough to handle, scoop a small amount of the mixture.
- Roll it into a ball shape, about the size of a cherry.
- Roll the ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
- Place the brigadeiro in a paper cup for serving.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cocoa powder with carob powder for a different flavor. Additionally, use dairy-free butter to make these treats vegan-friendly. Customize the toppings with nuts or coconut flakes for variety.
Serving and Pairings
Brigadeiros are perfect for parties, served alongside coffee or tea. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit platters or can be enjoyed as a sweet treat at celebrations like birthdays and weddings.
Storage and Reheating
Store brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life. Brigadeiros do not freeze well due to their texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the cooking process; it needs time to thicken properly.
- Stir constantly to avoid burning the mixture.
- Let the mixture cool enough before rolling to prevent burns.
- Use butter to grease your hands for easy rolling.
- Ensure the brigadeiros are well-coated to avoid stickiness.
Helpful Tips
- Try adding flavored extracts like vanilla or coconut for a twist.
- Experiment with different toppings for added texture.
- Keep your hands damp while rolling for a smoother finish.
- Make mini brigadeiros for bite-sized treats.
FAQs
What is brigadeiro?
Brigadeiro is a traditional Brazilian dessert made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, rolled into small balls and coated with chocolate sprinkles. It’s a favorite treat for birthdays and celebrations in Brazil.
Can brigadeiro be made vegan?
Yes, brigadeiro can be made vegan by substituting the butter with dairy-free alternatives and ensuring the chocolate sprinkles used are also vegan-friendly.
How long do brigadeiros last?
Brigadeiros can last up to a week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated. Always store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze brigadeiros?
Freezing brigadeiros is not recommended as it can alter their texture. It’s best to consume them fresh or store them in the fridge.
What are some variations of brigadeiro?
Variations include adding flavors like coconut, Nutella, or orange zest. You can also roll them in crushed nuts or different types of sprinkles for unique textures.
How do I make brigadeiro less sticky?
Ensure you cook the mixture long enough until it thickens properly. Greasing your hands with butter also helps when rolling them into balls.
Can I use different toppings for brigadeiro?
Absolutely! Brigadeiros can be topped with crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even edible glitter to make them more festive.
Conclusion
Brigadeiro is not only a delicious treat but also a symbol of joy and celebration in Brazilian culture. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dessert that can bring happiness to any gathering. Enjoy making brigadeiros and sharing them with your loved ones!
Brigadeiro
Ingredients
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Chocolate sprinkles for coating
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter.
- Once cool enough to handle, scoop a small amount of the mixture.
- Roll it into a ball shape, about the size of a cherry.
- Roll the ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
- Place the brigadeiro in a paper cup for serving.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used.
