Brigadeiros

Published Feb. 21, 2021

Recipe Overview

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes cooling and shaping)

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Cooling Time: 30 minutes | Shaping Time: 10–15 minutes

Introduction

A quintessential Brazilian chocolate fudge candy, Brigadeiros delight with their intense cocoa flavor, fudgy texture, and versatility. This recipe offers both traditional and streamlined methods, perfect for gatherings or as a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Yields: 20–25 pieces

Main Ingredients

• 5 cups (1200 ml) whole milk (for richness; use 2% fat for balanced creaminess)

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (balances cocoa sweetness)

• 2 teaspoons (10 g) unsalted butter (for smoothness; extra for greasing hands)

• 1¾ cups (400 g) sweetened condensed milk (store-bought: 1x 14-oz/400 g can; or homemade as below)

• 5 tablespoons (40 g) unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted to prevent clumps)

• Pinch of flaky sea salt (enhances chocolate depth)

• 1 cup (100 g) chocolate or rainbow sprinkles (non-melting recommended for texture retention)

Optional: Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

If preparing from scratch:

• 5 cups (1200 ml) whole milk

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

Tools Needed

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan (prevents scorching)

• Heat-resistant silicone spatula (even mixing)

• Parchment paper (for cooling/rolling)

• Measuring cups/spoons (precision)

• Small bowl (for sprinkles)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Sweetened Condensed Milk (If Homemade)

Combine milk and sugar in a heavy saucepan. Heat over low to medium-low heat (180–200°F/82–93°C), stirring occasionally with a heat-resistant spatula. Simmer until reduced to 1¾ cups (≈400 ml), thick, and pale golden (30–40 minutes). Remove from heat and cool slightly. If using store-bought: Skip this step.

Step 2: Melt Butter & Combine Base

In a clean heavy skillet, melt butter over low heat (160–170°F/71–77°C). Add condensed milk, sifted cocoa powder, and salt. Stir constantly with a spatula until smooth (5 minutes; no dry cocoa residue).

Step 3: Cook to Fudgy Consistency

Increase heat to medium (320–350°F/160–177°C). Stir continuously with a heatproof spatula until the mixture thickens:

• Lift the spatula; the mixture should form a cohesive "sheet" without sticking to the pan.

• Test: Drop ½ tsp into cold water. Cool, then press between fingers—it should feel like soft fudge (not sticky, not crumbly).

Cook 5–7 minutes total until done. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Cool & Shape

Transfer hot mixture to a parchment-lined plate. Cool 30 minutes until malleable but not sticky. Grease hands with butter, then:

• Pinch a scant tablespoon (≈15 g) of mixture, roll into a ball/cube.

• Roll in sprinkles until fully coated (press lightly for adhesion).

• Place on a paper liner for serving.

Storage & Serving

• Refrigerate: Airtight container for 1 week. Let sit at room temp 15 minutes before serving.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly; thaw 24 hours in fridge (lasts 1 month).

• Serve: Chilled (intense fudge) or room temp (softer, creamier).

Tips & Variations

• Time-Saving: Use store-bought condensed milk (12 minutes cooking, 30 minutes cooling, 10 minutes shaping).

• Flavor Twists:

• Add 1 tsp orange zest (microplaned) 1 minute before removing from heat.

• Stir in ¼ tsp cinnamon or 1 tbsp coffee powder (dissolved) for depth.

• For spice: Roll in chili powder + cinnamon mix (e.g., ¼ tsp cayenne).

• Fix Sprinkle Issues: Lightly dust hands with cornstarch before shaping to boost adhesion.

Traditional Notes

Brazilians often enjoy brigadeiros hot from the pan (cooled slightly) or spooned directly from the pot as a pudding. Adjust cooling time for softer texture if desired.

Enjoy this rich, fudgy classic—perfect for parties or a cozy night in!