Desserts
Brazilian Chocolate Fudge Balls
Ingredients
- - 395 g (1 can, 14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- - 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 15 g (1 tbsp) butter
- - 100 g (1 cup) chocolate sprinkles, for coating
Method
- Combine the condensed milk, cocoa powder and butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat.
- Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, scraping the base and sides continuously to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens significantly and pulls away cleanly from the bottom of the pan when stirred.
- Transfer the mixture onto a greased plate and let it cool completely at room temperature, about 30-40 minutes.
- Grease your hands lightly with butter, then roll heaped teaspoons of the cooled mixture into small balls.
- Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles to coat evenly and place in small paper cups if serving at a party.
Introduction: Brigadeiro was created in the 1940s in Rio de Janeiro, named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, and quickly became Brazil's most iconic party dessert, an essential feature of every birthday party and celebration nationwide.
Cultural Background: Brigadeiro was created in the 1940s in Rio de Janeiro, named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, and quickly became Brazil's most iconic party dessert, an essential feature of every birthday party and celebration nationwide.
Tips: The fudge is ready when it visibly separates from the pan bottom as you drag the spoon through it. Fully cool the mixture before rolling, or it will be too sticky to shape.
Variations: Beijinho: swap cocoa for shredded coconut and roll in extra coconut instead of sprinkles for the coconut version. Gourmet version: use dark chocolate ganache-style variations or roll in crushed nuts or cocoa nibs. Vegetarian: Yes. Vegan with dairy-free condensed milk and plant-based butter.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheating: Not applicable; served at room temperature or chilled.
Nutrition: Per piece (approx. 24 pieces total): 70 kcal, 1 g protein, 2 g fat, 12 g carbohydrate, 0.5 g fibre.
FAQs:
Q: Why is my brigadeiro too sticky to roll?
A: It likely needs to cool longer, or wasn’t cooked quite long enough; it should visibly pull away from the pan bottom before cooling.
Q: Can I make brigadeiro dairy-free?
A: Yes, dairy-free condensed milk alternatives (such as coconut condensed milk) and plant-based butter can be used.