Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro, essentially a Brazilian chocolate bonbon or truffle, has been on my mind since returning from Brazil over a decade ago! While there, I sampled it in it's true form, in ice cream form, and in a variety of other dessert applications. And I've been obsessed ever since.

Why I Love This Recipe

Brigadeiro is basically a fudgy cross between a truffle and a caramel, and they’re absolutely addictive. What I love most is how simple they are to make (hello, three ingredients!) and how easy it is to customize with whatever toppings you have on hand

Whether you're making a batch for a celebration, gifting them to friends, serving them at a baby shower or just craving a late-night sweet, these are always a hit. Plus, they're naturally gluten-free and a super fun project if you’ve got little hands around to help with rolling and decorating!

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder (this is my fav brand)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Unsalted Butter
• Topping Options are endless:
  • Crushed freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries
  • Cocoa nibs
  • Toffee bits
  • Crushed pretzels (for a sweet-salty combo)
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Crushed peppermint candies (great for holidays)
  • Sprinkles
  • Shredded Coconut
  • Oreos
  • Crushed graham crackers
  • Finely chopped pistachios
  • Toasted almonds
  • Chopped hazelnuts
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Peanut dust or crushed roasted peanuts
  • Matcha powder mixed with sugar
  • Finely shredded dried rose petals
  • Sesame seeds (white or black, lightly toasted)
  • Crushed candied ginger
  • Chopped dried fruit (apricots, mango, etc.)

*For a full list of ingredients and instructions please see recipe card below.

How to Make Brigadeiro

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cocoa powder, butter and condensed milk. Cook, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.

Step 2: The consistency should be thick after cooking. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture rest until cool enough to touch.

Step 3: Scoop the mixture into small balls, about ¾ inch in diameter, and roll in the topping of your preference. Chill before serving.

How to Store Brigadeiro

You can store brigadeiros at room temperature for a few days, but refrigerate them to extend their life to 7-10 days, especially if you are in a hot and humid climate. Place them in a glass container and make sure they are not squished.

How to Freeze Brigadeiro

You can freeze these for up to three months! Freeze in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag. You can thaw them in the fridge or outside when you want to eat them.

Tips & Tricks

Stir constantly—this is not a “walk away from the stove” moment. The mixture can burn quickly if left unattended.

You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is thick and pulls away from the pan—it should almost resemble soft fudge.

Don’t rush the cooling process! Let the mixture cool enough to handle comfortably before rolling.

Lightly butter your hands before rolling to prevent sticking.

Get creative with the toppings—crushed pretzels, freeze-dried berries, or chopped pistachios are all fair game.

FAQs

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