Smooth, creamy, and fudgy, these Brazilian brigadeiros are the ultimate chocolate treat. Traditionally rolled in chocolate sprinkles, this festive variation is coated in golden sprinkles—ideal for your holiday table.
Brigadeiros can be finished with many toppings—coconut flakes, rainbow sprinkles, or cocoa powder—depending on your taste and the occasion. They’re versatile and make a cheerful addition to any celebration, from birthdays to spring gatherings.
This post was sponsored; all opinions are my own.
The holidays are about traditions—the stories shared and the memories that return each year. Those rituals are comforting, and they evolve as families grow and adapt. I cherish the way traditions allow us to keep the old while embracing the new.
Twenty years ago I moved from Brazil to Massachusetts. Adapting to a new country meant mixing familiar comforts with new traditions. Over time I found a balance that feels like home: familiar flavors from Brazil paired with seasonal New England comforts.
At our house you’ll almost always find a plate of brigadeiros, and winter evenings are made cozier with a giant mug of Brazilian hot cocoa.
While I traded the small decorative palm we used at Christmas back home for a tall, classic tree, I kept the scent and warmth of the season as part of our celebration. For me, a real evergreen tree completes the atmosphere.
My favorite varieties are balsam fir, Fraser fir, and Douglas fir:
Balsam fir has flat, dark green needles with a subtle silver sheen. It’s prized for its sharp, spicy fragrance—the quintessential Christmas scent.
Fraser fir offers a pleasant aroma and sturdy, upward-angled branches that hold heavy ornaments and garlands well.
Douglas fir forms a full, pyramidal shape with soft, flat needles and a rich fragrance. It’s one of the most commonly grown Christmas trees in the United States.
To set the mood at home I enjoy holiday-scented candles that evoke a fresh-cut tree and festive spirit. A scent that captures that classic evergreen aroma can make your home feel immediately seasonal and welcoming.
What is brigadeiro?
Brigadeiro is a traditional Brazilian confection made from condensed milk, chocolate, and butter. It’s a staple at birthday parties, weddings, and many celebrations across Brazil. These bite-sized truffles are beloved for their rich, fudgy texture and chocolatey flavor.
What is brigadeiro made of?
Classic brigadeiros are made from three simple ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, chocolate powder (or cocoa), and butter. After cooking and cooling, the mixture is formed into small balls and rolled in sprinkles or other coatings.
How to make Brazilian brigadeiros
- In a small saucepan, combine one 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate powder, and butter.
- Over medium-low heat, whisk or stir constantly for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture becomes creamy and pulls away from the pan when tilted.
- Pour the cooked chocolate mixture onto a greased plate and chill, uncovered, for at least 30 minutes to cool and firm.
- Grease your hands with a little butter or oil. Scoop about 1/2 tablespoon of the chocolate mixture and roll it into a smooth ball.
- Roll each ball in golden sprinkles (or your chosen coating) until fully covered.
- Refrigerate the brigadeiros to set before serving.
How to store brigadeiros
At room temperature, brigadeiros will keep for a couple of days. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks to maintain texture, or freeze them for up to three months. During warm months, refrigeration helps prevent them from becoming too soft.
More chocolate treats to try:
Chocolate Peppermint Cups
Chocolate Marshmallow Cups
Chocolate Date Energy Balls
Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
Holiday Brazilian Brigadeiro
Ingredients
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tbsp chocolate powder (cocoa)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 oz golden sprinkles (or preferred coating)
Instructions
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Combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate powder, and butter in a small saucepan. Whisk or stir constantly over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture is thick, glossy, and pulls away from the pan.
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Spread the cooked mixture onto a greased plate and refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes to cool and firm up.
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Grease your hands with butter or oil. Scoop about 1/2 tablespoon of the cooled mixture and roll into a ball. Roll each ball in sprinkles to coat.
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Chill the brigadeiros to set. Store at room temperature for a few days, refrigerate for a few weeks, or freeze for up to three months.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 10g
| Protein: 1g
| Fat: 2g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.