Made from condensed milk, cocoa, and butter, brigadeiro is Brazil’s most iconic dessert. Fudgy, rich, and rolled in chocolate sprinkles, it’s present at every birthday and celebration. Created in the 1940s, it became a national symbol of childhood, parties, and happiness, and to this day, no Brazilian celebration feels complete without it.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10–15 minutes (stovetop) + optional 10 minutes cooling for rolling

Servings: 12–15 small brigadeiros (1-inch balls)

Ingredients

• 1 can (395g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (or chocolate powder)
• Chocolate sprinkles

Preparation

1. Put everything in a pan on medium-low heat.
2. Stir constantly.
3. Cook until it thickens and pulls away from the bottom (about 10–15 min).
4. Transfer to a plate, let cool completely.
5. Butter your hands, roll into balls.
6. Roll in chocolate sprinkles.