Easy Brigadeiro Recipe

These easy brigadeiros are rich, chewy Brazilian chocolate truffles made with just 4 ingredients. They require no baking and come together on the stovetop in about 15 minutes.

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Chewy chocolate bites (Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)

Brigadeiro is a classic Brazilian sweet made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. For this version, I coat the creamy chocolate candies in shredded coconut for a delicious twist. They’re naturally gluten-free, bite-sized, make-ahead friendly, and made with just four simple ingredients, making them an easy dessert for any occasion.

These chocolate brigadeiros are creamy, chewy, and irresistibly chocolatey. The mixture comes together quickly on the stovetop—no oven required—and once it cools, you simply roll it into small balls and coat them with shredded coconut or your favorite topping. Traditionally served in small paper liners, brigadeiros are especially popular at Brazilian birthday parties, celebrations, and holiday gatherings.

If you love this classic Brazilian treat, try these coconut brigadeiros —a deeply satisfying variation that has become a reader favorite on the blog.

What goes in: ingredient notes

Some NOTES about the main ingredients of this recipe:

• Condensed milk: sweetened condensed milk. It’s the main ingredient of brigadeiros and gives a creamy, chewy consistency.
• Cocoa Powder: unsweetened cocoa powder that adds the chocolate flavor.
• Butter: unsalted butter that creates a smooth texture.
• Shredded coconut: shredded coconut as the coating for these brigadeiros. For traditional Brazilian brigadeiros, use chocolate sprinkles instead.

How to make brigadeiros

Place the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder in a deep saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.

Continue cooking for about 12 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and starts pulling away from the bottom and sides of the pan.

Tilt the saucepan slightly. The mixture should move away from the bottom of the pan and come together into a thick, cohesive mass. You should also be able to see the bottom of the pan briefly when you run your spoon through the mixture.

Transfer the mixture into a bowl and let it cool at room temperature.

Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking (optional). Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls.

Roll each brigadeiro in shredded coconut until completely coated. If you prefer traditional brigadeiros, use chocolate sprinkles instead.

Place the finished brigadeiros in small paper liners or in a dish, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Store brigadeiros covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze brigadeiros?

Yes, they freeze beautifully; first freeze them in a tray, then in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Good to know: baking tips

• Stir constantly: The condensed milk mixture can burn easily, so keep stirring constantly while it cooks.
• Wait until completely cool: Warm brigadeiro mixture is very sticky and difficult to shape. Allow the brigadeiro mixture to cool completely before shaping.
• Butter your hands: A small amount of butter on your hands makes rolling the brigadeiros much easier. This is optional, but prevent sticking.
• Don’t undercook the mixture: It needs to pull away from the bottom and sides of the saucepan. You should also be able to see the bottom of the pan briefly when you run your spoon through the mixture.

Make it your own: topping ideas

For a dessert table, make several batches with different toppings and arrange them together for a colorful, eye-catching display. It’s an easy way to create a variety of flavors while adding a festive touch.

• Chocolate sprinkles: The traditional choice for classic Brazilian brigadeiros.
• Rainbow Sprinkles: Great for birthdays and children’s parties. So cute!
• Coconut: My favorite for this recipe and a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Cocoa: Creates a simple, intensely chocolatey coating. Keep in mind that the slightly bitter flavor may not be a favorite with young children.
• Crushed peanuts or walnuts: Adds a little crunch and nuttiness.

You might wonder: FAQ

Are brigadeiros gluten-free? Yes, brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels of your cocoa powder, sprinkles, and other toppings.

Why are my brigadeiros too soft? The mixture may not have been cooked long enough. Return it to the saucepan and cook it over medium-low heat for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until thick.

Can I make brigadeiro ahead of time? Yes, they are a perfect make-ahead dessert. Prepare them in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use chocolate sprinkles instead of coconut? Absolutely. Chocolate sprinkles are actually the traditional topping for brigadeiros.

For more gluten-free small-bite recipes

If you love these easy brigadeiros, try some of these other bite-sized desserts:

• Chocolate peanut butter balls.
• Chocolate crinkle cookies.
• Lemon ricotta cookies.

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