Are you ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Look no further than the classic Brazilian treat, brigadeiro. These creamy, dreamy chocolate truffles are a staple at parties and gatherings, but we’re taking them to the next level with 18 decadent variations that will satisfy any craving.
From classic combinations like chocolate and nuts to creative twists like matcha and raspberry, these brigadeiro recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic preparation, you can create a batch of these delicious treats in no time.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering brigadeiro recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic chocolate to unique flavor combinations, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Classic Chocolate Brigadeiro
A traditional Brazilian dessert, Brigadeiro is a rich and creamy chocolate treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and the mixture is glossy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or individual molds. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Strawberry Brigadeiro
A classic Brazilian dessert, brigadeiro is a rich and creamy chocolate treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This strawberry twist adds natural sweetness and a pop of color to the original recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup (100g) sliced strawberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and melted.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Fold in sliced strawberries.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Coconut Brigadeiro
Coconut Brigadeiro: A creamy, dreamy dessert inspired by the popular Brazilian treat, brigadeiros. This recipe combines sweetened condensed milk with shredded coconut and chocolate for a unique flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shaved chocolate for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and warm.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Fold in shredded coconut and chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Pour into a shallow dish or individual molds. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or shaved chocolate if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Nutella Brigadeiro
A classic Brazilian treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the creamy goodness of Nutella, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons Nutella
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sweetened condensed milk, Nutella, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture onto a greased plate or silicone mat.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Brigadeiro
A classic Brazilian dessert, Pistachio Brigadeiro is a rich and creamy treat that combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with caramelized milk. This simple recipe yields a batch of deliciously smooth and flavorful brigadeiros.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, condensed milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pistachios. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper.
4. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Chocolate Brigadeiro
This creamy, dreamy dessert is a twist on the classic Brazilian brigadeiro recipe, with a silky white chocolate coating and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Pinch of sea salt
– Fresh fruit or nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in confectioners’ sugar until combined.
4. Pour into a shallow dish or individual molds. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Sprinkle with sea salt before serving, if desired. Garnish with fresh fruit or nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating the cream mixture) + refrigeration time
Caramel Brigadeiro
A classic Brazilian treat that combines creamy dulce de leche caramel with crunchy biscotti, perfect for a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dulce de leche caramel
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed biscotti (Italian cookies)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dulce de leche caramel and heavy cream over medium heat.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted.
4. Pour the caramel mixture into a shallow dish or plate.
5. Sprinkle the crushed biscotti evenly over the top of the caramel.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the caramel.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Oreo Brigadeiro
Get ready to experience a delightful twist on the classic brigadeiro, with the added crunch of Oreos! This sweet treat is perfect for dessert or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped Oreo cookies
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped Oreos, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a small baking dish.
4. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped Oreos if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-10 minutes
Peanut Butter Brigadeiro
Brigadeiro is a classic Brazilian dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This peanut butter version adds a creamy twist to the original recipe, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and peanut butter. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until melted and smooth.
4. Pour into a lined or greased 8-inch (20cm) square pan. Let cool to room temperature before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Brigadeiro
Experience the delightful fusion of Japanese matcha green tea and Brazilian brigadeiro chocolate truffles in this unique dessert recipe. Rich, creamy chocolate meets the subtle bitterness of matcha, creating a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips and butter, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in confectioners’ sugar, matcha powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow mixture to firm up.
4. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small portions of the mixture, shaping into balls.
5. Refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Raspberry Brigadeiro
Combine the sweetness of raspberries with the richness of brigadeiros for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in the raspberries and granulated sugar.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual serving cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Lemon Brigadeiro
This refreshing dessert combines the richness of brigadeiros with the brightness of lemon, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and warm.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
4. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating the mixture)
Salted Caramel Brigadeiro
Transform classic Brazilian brigadeiros into a salty-sweet masterpiece with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and chocolate chips until smooth.
3. Pour into a shallow dish or silicone mat lined with parchment paper.
4. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Chop into squares and garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus cooling time)
Red Velvet Brigadeiro
Experience the rich flavors of Brazil with this decadent Red Velvet Brigadeiro recipe. This creamy, dreamy dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed Oreo cookies or other chocolate sandwich cookies (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 115°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in red food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle crushed cookies on top of each brigadeiro.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Brigadeiros!
Tiramisu Brigadeiro
This unique dessert combines the creamy richness of brigadeiros with the espresso-infused flavors of tiramisu. The result is a decadent and addictive treat that’s perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 12-16 ladyfingers, split
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and espresso powder until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee-flavored mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the tiramisu by creating layers of ladyfingers and whipped cream in a serving dish.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Banana Brigadeiro
A sweet and creamy Brazilian dessert, Banana Brigadeiro is a simple yet decadent treat that combines caramelized bananas with rich dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup dulce de leche (or caramel sauce)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of each banana piece with butter, then sprinkle with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Spoon dulce de leche over the warm bananas and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Brigadeiro
This recipe puts a seasonal spin on the traditional brigadeiro, adding warm pumpkin spice flavors to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
2. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar until dissolved.
3. Stir in heavy cream until well combined.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle on top of the brigadeiro.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is cooked and chilled, then served.
Almond Joy Brigadeiro
This classic Brazilian treat combines the creamy sweetness of brigadeiros with the crunchy nuttiness of almonds and the indulgent flavor of coconut. Perfect for a sweet escape!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine condensed milk, butter, and powdered sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Stir in chopped almonds, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour onto a greased surface, such as parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Let cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a cookie scoop or spoon to shape into desired forms.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes (depending on the heat and stirring pace)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of Brazil’s beloved brigadeiro treats! This collection of 18 decadent recipes offers a world of possibilities. From classic chocolate to unique flavor combinations like strawberry-coconut, Nutella-pistachio, and caramel-oreo, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at making brigadeiros with white chocolate, peanut butter, matcha green tea, or even pumpkin spice. With such a variety of flavors, you’re sure to find the perfect treat to satisfy your cravings. Dive in and discover the joy of brigadeiro-making!
