Easy Brigadeiro Recipe – Brazilian Chocolate Truffles

Name: Brigadeiro Recipe (Classic Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 can (397 g) sweetened condensed milk; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended); Chocolate sprinkles (for rolling); Extra butter (to grease hands)

Jump to Recipe

Truffles come in many forms, and I’ve discussed many types of truffles on my blog before, but the truffle recipe I’m sharing with you today is one of my favorites. These classic Brazilian chocolate truffles—Brigadeiro Recipe made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter—are one of the easiest no-bake desserts you can make at home. They take only a few minutes, require no baking skills, and taste like soft, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate fudge.

Brigadeiros aren’t just another chocolate candy recipe—they are a beloved Brazilian tradition, served at Christmas, birthdays, holidays, school parties, potlucks, and every celebration you can imagine. They’re as easy to make as they are to taste, and the final result is bound to impress you. As a quick, budget-friendly dessert, these Brigadeiros are the ultimate choice that always impresses. They use just a handful of pantry ingredients, cost very little to make, and look like gourmet chocolate truffles. This no-bake recipe is my favorite because it only requires 3 ingredients to make, plus it’s kid-friendly and a favorite for any occasion, especially Christmas.

Related: Shrini Danmarki Recipe

Yield: 20-22 brigadeiros

Brigadeiro Recipe (Classic Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)

Brigadeiros are rich, fudgy Brazilian chocolate truffles made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and rolled in chocolate sprinkles. This no-bake dessert recipe is loved for its quick prep time, minimal ingredients, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes

Total Time 22 minutes

Ingredients

1 can (397 g) sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
Chocolate sprinkles (for rolling)
Extra butter (to grease hands)

Instructions

Prepare the pan:
Add sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter to a non-stick saucepan.
Mix well:
Stir until the cocoa powder dissolves fully and no lumps remain.
Cook the mixture:
Set the heat to medium-low.
Continue stirring for 10–12 minutes.
The mixture is ready when it pulls away from the bottom of the pan (soft fudge consistency).

Add vanilla extract (optional):
Stir in vanilla and remove from heat.
Cool the mixture:
Transfer to a greased plate or bowl. Let it cool completely or refrigerate for 1 hour.
Shape the brigadeiros:
Grease your hands lightly with butter.
Scoop small portions and roll into smooth balls.
Coat in sprinkles:
Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully covered.
Serve or store:
Serve immediately, or
Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.

Notes

Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Stir continuously to prevent burning.
The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled.
For extra shine, use a little extra butter while rolling.
If the mixture feels too soft, chill longer before shaping.

Variations

Coconut Brigadeiro (Beijinho): Replace cocoa with shredded coconut.
Nutella Brigadeiro: Add 2 tbsp Nutella for a rich hazelnut flavor.
Coffee Brigadeiro: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder.
Oreo Brigadeiro: Roll in crushed Oreos instead of sprinkles.
Protein Brigadeiro (Healthy Version): Add chocolate protein powder and roll in cacao nibs.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 18Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 11mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 1g

What Is Brigadeiro?

Brigadeiro (pronounced: bree-gah-dee-ro) is a classic Brazilian chocolate truffle made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, then rolled in chocolate sprinkles. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s moist, smooth, rich, and incredibly easy to make—even if you’ve never made candy before.

These Brazilian fudge balls are part of Brazil’s culinary identity—similar to chocolate truffles but with a smoother, creamier texture thanks to the condensed milk. In many homes, brigadeiro is the first dessert that parents introduce their children to because it’s easy, comforting, and impossible to mess up.

The best part is that you don’t need a candy thermometer or expensive ingredients to make it, and you can make this ultimate comfort chocolate without any special skills or baking experience.

Related: Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

Brigadeiro Ingredients — what you need (and why)

This is the classic Brigadeiro ingredient list that delivers the chewy, fudgy Brazilian chocolate truffles everyone loves.

Ingredients (classic brigadeiro)

Sweetened condensed milk

1 (397 g) can
Unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)

2 tbsp (15 g)
Unsalted butter

1 tbsp (14 g)
Vanilla extract (optional)

1 tsp
Chocolate sprinkles (for coating)

~100 g
Extra butter (to grease hands/plate)

as needed

Smart ingredient swaps & dietary options

Vegan: condensed milk → 1 can coconut condensed milk Dairy-free: butter → coconut oil Keto: sweetened condensed milk → sugar-free condensed milk or condensed milk + erythritol Protein boost: add 1–2 tbsp chocolate protein powder

Suggested: Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Brigadeiro (Best No-Bake Chocolate Truffles)

Follow this easy, foolproof brigadeiro method — perfect for Christmas dessert recipes, no-bake truffles, party dessert ideas, edible gifts, and quick holiday candy recipes.

Gather ingredients & tools — quick kitchen checklist

Keep everything measured and ready. For the classic, you only need sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and butter. Grab a non-stick saucepan and a wooden spoon — this simple setup is why brigadeiro is one of the best no-bake dessert recipes.
Combine condensed milk, cocoa powder & butter

Add the sweetened condensed milk, sifted cocoa, and butter into the saucepan. Stir gently until the cocoa dissolves into a silky mixture. Using good-quality cocoa dramatically improves flavor — this is your shortcut to the best brigadeiro recipe.

Use organic or Dutch-process cocoa for a richer, deeper chocolate profile.
Cook on medium-low, stir constantly until thick

Turn heat to medium-low and stir constantly for about 10–12 minutes. The telltale sign it’s ready: the mixture pulls away from the pan and has a soft fudge texture. Avoid high heat — burnt brigadeiro is a sad brigadeiro.
Add vanilla (optional) and cool the mixture

Remove from heat, stir in a splash of vanilla for aroma, and spread the mixture onto a greased plate. Let it cool at room temp or pop it in the fridge for 45–60 minutes. Chilling gives you the cleanest roll and is a must for neat, professional-looking brigadeiros.

Chilling makes them perfect for party trays and edible gifts.
Grease hands, scoop, and roll into balls

Lightly grease your palms with butter. Scoop small portions (about 1 teaspoon each) and roll quickly into smooth balls. If the mixture is sticky, chill a bit more. Rolling is relaxing — and addictive — and yields delightful, uniform truffles for serving.
Coat each ball in sprinkles or your favorite topping

Roll brigadeiros in chocolate sprinkles for an authentic finish. Other tasty coatings: crushed cookies (Oreo), shredded toasted coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts.
Serve, store or gift — final presentation tips

Serve in mini cupcake liners for an elegant look. Store at room temperature for 2–3 days, refrigerate up to 10 days, or freeze (without coatings) up to 2 months. These no-bake truffles are perfect for cookie swaps, holiday boxes, and quick dessert platters.

Suggested: Thanksgiving Cocktails

Flavor Variations — Delicious Brigadeiro Recipe (Easy, No-Bake, Viral)

1. Nutella Brigadeiro — Hazelnut Chocolate Dream

Add 2 tbsp Nutella to the hot brigadeiro mixture and fold until smooth. Roll and coat with chopped toasted hazelnuts or cocoa nibs.

2. Espresso Brigadeiro — Coffee-Infused Fudge Ball

Stir in 1 tsp instant espresso or strong cold-brew concentrate for a mocha kick. Roll in dark chocolate sprinkles for an elegant finish.

3. Coconut Brigadeiro (Beijinho-style) — Tropical & Chewy

Replace cocoa with 3 tbsp of fine shredded coconut. Optionally add a pinch of cardamom. Roll in toasted coconut for freshness.

4. Matcha White Chocolate Brigadeiro — Elegant Green Tea Twist

Use white condensed milk + 2 tbsp white chocolate chips and 1 tsp culinary matcha. Roll in powdered matcha or chopped pistachios.

5. Oreo Brigadeiro — Cookies & Cream Crowd-Pleaser

Fold in 1/3 cup finely crushed Oreo crumbs after cooking. Roll in extra crumbs or dip half into melted chocolate.

6. Pistachio & Rose Brigadeiro — Fancy Party Favour

Fold in 2 tbsp finely ground pistachios and a few drops of rosewater. Roll in crushed pistachios and top with a dried rose petal.

7. Salted Caramel Brigadeiro — Sweet & Savoury Balance

Stir in 2 tbsp soft caramel and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Roll in chopped toffee bits or Maldon-salted caramel dust.

8. Peanut Butter Brigadeiro — Classic Peanut-Butter-Chocolate Combo

Mix 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter into the cooked base. Roll in crushed peanuts or dip in peanut butter-chocolate drizzle.

9. Orange Zest Brigadeiro — Bright Citrus Lift

Add 1 tsp orange zest and 1 tsp orange liqueur (optional). Roll in orange sugar or dip into dark chocolate for contrast.

10. Raspberry & Dark Chocolate Brigadeiro — Tart & Luxurious

Fold in 2 tbsp raspberry purée reduced to a thick jam. Roll in freeze-dried raspberry powder + cocoa for a dramatic finish.

11. Peanut Butter Cup Brigadeiro — Candy Bar Remix

Mix in chopped peanut butter cups or swirl peanut butter into the base. Coat in chocolate and top with mini peanut butter cup pieces.

12. Chili Chocolate Brigadeiro — Spicy Adult Treat

Add 1/4 tsp ancho or cayenne and a pinch of smoked paprika. Roll in dark cocoa and serve with espresso for heat-lovers.

13. Lemon Curd Brigadeiro — Zesty & Light

Fold in 2 tbsp lemon curd after cooking. Roll in powdered sugar + lemon zest for a bright, bakery-style bite.

14. Dark Rum & Raisin Brigadeiro — Festive & Boozy

Soak 3 tbsp raisins in a splash of dark rum, chop, and fold into the base. Roll in cacao powder and chopped roasted almonds.

15. Almond Joy Brigadeiro — Coconut, Almond & Chocolate

Combine shredded coconut + chopped toasted almonds. Roll in more coconut or dip halfway in dark chocolate for that candy-bar finish.

16. Tahini & Honey Brigadeiro — Middle-Eastern Twist

Fold in 1 tbsp tahini and 1 tsp honey for a nutty, savory-sweet flavor. Roll in sesame seeds for texture and flair.

17. Blueberry Cheesecake Brigadeiro — Fruity & Creamy

Stir in 2 tbsp blueberry compote + 1 tbsp cream cheese (softened). Roll in graham cracker crumbs to mimic cheesecake flavors.

18. Hazelnut Praline Brigadeiro — Crunchy & Caramelized

Fold in 2 tbsp homemade or store-bought praline paste. Roll in crushed praline or cocoa nibs for contrast.

19. Strawberry White Chocolate Brigadeiro — Sweet Pink Treat

Use white chocolate + 2 tbsp strawberry purée. Roll in freeze-dried strawberry powder for color and punch.

20. Vegan Cocoa & Coconut Brigadeiro — Dairy-Free Option

Use full-fat coconut condensed milk substitute + 2 tbsp cocoa + vegan butter. Roll in toasted coconut or cacao nibs.

21. Protein-Packed Brigadeiro — Healthier Dessert Option

Add 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder and 1 tbsp almond butter; adjust condensed milk for texture. Roll in crushed nuts or cacao nibs.

How to Serve Brigadeiro — irresistible ideas for parties, gifts & sales

Here are some of my favorite serving ideas. I hope you like them.

Serve warm to enjoy soft, fudgy brigadeiros or chill 30–60 minutes for firm, bite-size truffles perfect for packaging.

1. Party Platter — Crowd-pleasing dessert tray

Arrange brigadeiros in mini cupcake liners on a tiered dessert stand or wooden platter. Mix flavors — classic chocolate, pistachio, and coffee — to create variety.

Serve with: espresso shots, dessert forks, and labels for each flavor.

2. Edible Gifts — Cute boxes & jars

Package 6–12 brigadeiros in small kraft boxes, clear jars, or mason jars tied with ribbon and a gift tag. Use parchment separators to keep them pristine.

Pro tip: Add a sticker with your logo if you’re selling — branded edible gifts convert well.

3. Dessert Cups & Parfaits — Layered elegance

Chop a few brigadeiros and layer with whipped cream, espresso, or fruit compote in clear cups. Instant upscale dessert that doubles as a plated choice.

Best for: plated service, wedding dessert tables, intimate dinners.

4. Cake & Cupcake Toppers — Tiny chocolate crowns

Use whole brigadeiros as toppers for cupcakes or mini cakes. They look gorgeous on frosting rosettes and add richness to single-serve treats.

Note: Chill brigadeiros 30 minutes before topping to keep shape.

5. On Ice Cream & Coffee — decadent pairings

Crumble a brigadeiro (or place a whole one) on vanilla ice cream or stir into a hot espresso for an instant mocha-style treat.

Perfect for: cafés, brunch menus, cozy winter desserts.

6. Sell & Scale — packaging for markets and bakeries

If you plan to sell brigadeiros, focus on consistent sizing, clear labeling (ingredients + allergens), and shelf-stable packaging.

Quick Serving Ideas

1
Last-minute party: Place brigadeiros in mini liners on a mirrored tray.
2
Gifting: 9 per box with bakery tissue and a ribbon — ideal for neighbor gifts.
3
Kids’ table: Use colorful sprinkles and paper cups; avoid nuts and note allergen info.
4
Elegant dessert plate: Serve 2 brigadeiros with a berry coulis and mint.
5
Café menu: Offer as an add-on to coffee or as a mini dessert pairing.

Related: Banana Bread Recipe

Storage Guide — Keep Your Brigadeiro Recipe Fresh & Profitable

It’s true that you can make something so beautiful and delicious, but you have to store it properly. I’ve given you some tips, which I hope you follow. You’ll be able to store this no-bake Brazilian dessert for quite some time and enjoy it with your family.

Room Temperature (Easy & Ready to Serve)

Brigadeiros are often served at room temperature. For short-term serving (party table or gift box delivery within a day), room temp is fine — but keep them in an airtight tin or box out of direct sunlight. Ideal room-temp storage: 16–20°C / 60–68°F.

Do: Use a lined box or paper liners to prevent sticking.
Don’t: leave them near heaters or windows — heat melts texture.
Tip: Add a small moisture absorber packet if you’re shipping locally.

Refrigerator (Best for Longer Freshness)

For the best shelf life, store brigadeiros in the refrigerator. Place them in a single layer (or use separators) inside an airtight container. Cold helps preserve flavor and prevents the fat from going rancid.

How Long?

7–10 days for traditional brigadeiros. If you added dairy-free substitutes or fillings (e.g., Nutella), expect slightly shorter freshness — check at 5–7 days.

How to Serve from the Fridge

Bring to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving to restore the right fudgy mouthfeel. Avoid microwaving — it can split the texture.

Freezer (For Long-Term Storage & Bulk Prep)

Want to make brigadeiros ahead for the holidays or to sell? Freezing is your friend. Freeze the centers first (uncoated), then roll and coat after thawing for the freshest finish.

Recommended storage: vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped in two layers (plastic wrap + freezer bag).
Shelf life: Up to 2 months for best texture; safe longer but quality drops.
Thawing: Move to fridge for 6–12 hours, then bring to room temp 30–60 minutes before rolling/coating.

Packaging & Selling

If you’re selling or gifting brigadeiros, presentation and shelf-stability matter. Use food-grade boxes, liners, and a clear best-by label. Keep a small note about storage instructions to reduce returns and increase customer satisfaction.

Bulk orders: freeze centers and finish coating 24–48 hours prior to delivery for peak freshness.

Label: “Keep refrigerated. Best within 7 days.”

Gift boxes: include a silica or moisture-control packet if shipping short distances.

Shelf Life & Food Safety

Brigadeiros are made from sweetened condensed milk — a sugar-rich matrix that slows bacterial growth but doesn’t make them shelf-stable indefinitely. Use the fridge for week-long freshness and the freezer for longer storage. Always check smell & texture before serving.

FAQ on Christmas Chocolate Truffles – Brigadeiro Recipe

What is a brigadeiro and where did it come from?

Brigadeiro is a classic Brazilian chocolate truffle — a soft, fudgy candy made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. It’s a beloved no-bake dessert in Brazil and a top choice for holiday candy, party desserts, and edible gifts.

How long does it take to make brigadeiros?

From start to finish, expect about 10 minutes active prep, 10–12 minutes cooking on the stove, plus around 30–60 minutes cooling before rolling. Total time depends on chilling: if you chill the mixture it’s faster to roll.

My brigadeiro mixture is too runny — how do I fix it?

This is common. Keep cooking on low heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the pan — the “point” where it resembles a soft fudge. If you’ve already cooled it and it’s still too soft, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes then try rolling.

Can I make brigadeiros without cocoa powder or make them white chocolate?

Yes — for white brigadeiros, replace cocoa with melted white chocolate or finely grated white chocolate and a bit of cream to adjust texture. You can also make coconut brigadeiros (beijinho) by using sweetened shredded coconut instead.

Are brigadeiros gluten-free and suitable for kids?

Traditional brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free (check sprinkles or coatings to be safe). They’re kid-friendly and make excellent party treats.

How should I store brigadeiros and how long do they last?

Store in an airtight container: room temperature for 2–4 days in cool climates, refrigerated for up to 10 days, or freeze uncoated brigadeiros up to 2 months. Thaw gently in the fridge before serving.

Can I make different flavors (Nutella, coffee, matcha)? Which variations work best?

Absolutely. Add Nutella, espresso powder, matcha, or flavored extracts to create dozens of variations — we recommend testing in small batches.

Is there a vegan or low-sugar brigadeiro option?

Yes. Use sweetened condensed coconut milk or a homemade condensed-milk substitute, vegan butter, and a low-sugar cocoa blend or sugar substitute formulated for candy. For keto-friendly brigadeiros, try a sugar-free condensed milk recipe and roll in crushed nuts or cocoa nibs.

Can I scale this recipe to sell at markets or gift boxes? Any tips?

Yes — brigadeiros scale well. For small businesses: invest in consistent portion scoops, quality packaging, a label with ingredients/allergens, and proper refrigeration during transport.

Where can I find the best cocoa, sprinkles, and condensed milk for top results?

Choose high-quality Dutch-processed or natural cocoa (Dutch for velvety flavor), a reliable sweetened condensed milk brand, and sprinkles labeled gluten-free if needed. Specialty baking stores, premium grocery aisles, or reputable online stores carry bakery-grade ingredients.

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