Brigadeiro Recipe

Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, sweet milk is the base of the brigadeiro mixture, providing the necessary sweetness and creamy texture.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor to the brigadeiro mixture without adding extra sweetness.

Butter: Helps to create a smooth, glossy texture and prevents the mixture from sticking to the pan.

Chocolate sprinkles: Used to coat the brigadeiros, adding a delightful crunch and extra chocolatey goodness.

When cooking the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter mixture, make sure to use a non-stick saucepan and a silicone spatula to prevent sticking and burning. Stir constantly in a figure-eight motion to ensure even cooking and to avoid any lumps forming.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk is a great gluten-free alternative that provides a similar sweetness and consistency.

• unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally gluten-free and offers a similar chocolatey flavor without the caffeine.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a gluten-free option that provides a rich, creamy texture similar to butter.

• chocolate sprinkles - Substitute with shredded coconut: Shredded coconut is gluten-free and adds a delightful texture and flavor to the brigadeiros.

• Allow the brigadeiros to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This ensures they maintain their shape and texture.
• Place the brigadeiros in an airtight container. Layer them in a single layer, using parchment paper between layers if you need to stack them.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The brigadeiros will keep for up to 2 weeks, retaining their delightful chewy texture.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the brigadeiros. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the brigadeiros to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the brigadeiros in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• Before serving, let the brigadeiros come to room temperature for the best taste and texture experience.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the brigadeiros on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
  3. Check the texture; if not warm enough, continue heating in 5-second intervals.
  4. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become too soft.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the brigadeiros on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't melt.
  4. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill a saucepan with a couple of inches of water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring it doesn't touch the water.
  3. Add the brigadeiros to the bowl and stir gently until they warm up.
  4. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Room Temperature Method:

  1. Simply take the brigadeiros out of the refrigerator.
  2. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  3. Enjoy them as they soften naturally without any additional heat.

• Saucepan: Used to combine and cook the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter over medium heat.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the mixture constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

• Butter knife: Useful for cutting and measuring the butter.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the cocoa powder and butter.

• Plate: Used to place the brigadeiros on after rolling them in chocolate sprinkles.

• Small bowl: Perfect for holding the chocolate sprinkles while you roll the brigadeiros.

• Butter: Used to grease your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling it into balls.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter before starting. This will streamline the cooking process.

Use non-stick cookware: A non-stick saucepan will make it easier to stir the mixture and prevent sticking, saving you cleanup time.

Cool faster: Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool faster, so you can start rolling sooner.

Batch rolling: Roll multiple brigadeiros at once by dividing the mixture into equal portions before shaping them into balls.

Pre-grease hands: Grease your hands with butter before rolling to prevent sticking and speed up the process.