Brigadeiro is a beloved Brazilian sweet that has found its way into the hearts of people worldwide. Traditionally, it’s made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles, but gourmet brigadeiro takes this classic treat to a whole new level with added flavors, textures, and unique ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this step-by-step guide will help you make the most decadent gourmet brigadeiros.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
The base for gourmet brigadeiros is still the same as the classic version, but we will add some extra ingredients to give it a gourmet twist.
You will need:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (choose a high-quality cocoa for a richer flavor)
- 100g of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Toppings (chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or coconut flakes)
2. Begin with the Traditional Base
Start by placing the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This type of pan helps ensure that the ingredients cook evenly and prevent burning. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps or burning.
As the mixture heats up, the cocoa powder will blend into the condensed milk, creating a smooth base. Keep stirring, scraping the sides of the pan, and be patient. The mixture will start to thicken after a few minutes.
3. Add Dark Chocolate for a Gourmet Twist
Once the mixture has thickened and started to pull away from the sides of the pan, add the chopped dark chocolate. This is the secret to making your brigadeiro gourmet. Dark chocolate adds depth and richness to the flavor, giving it an elegant touch. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.
4. The Perfect Consistency: Know When It’s Done
To check if your brigadeiro is at the right consistency, take a small spoonful and let it cool slightly. You should be able to roll it into a soft ball that doesn’t stick to your fingers too much. If the mixture is still too runny, cook it a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a little bit of butter or milk to loosen it up.
The ideal texture is creamy but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls. This will ensure that your brigadeiros are smooth and easy to work with.
5. Roll Into Perfect Balls
Once the brigadeiro mixture reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle. When it’s cool enough to touch, use your hands (grease them lightly with butter to prevent sticking) to roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
The size of the brigadeiro balls depends on your preference, but typically they should be about the size of a walnut. If you want to make them extra decadent, feel free to roll them slightly larger.
6. Choose Your Toppings
The beauty of gourmet brigadeiros is in the toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your treats:
- Chopped nuts: Try using hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a crunchy texture that complements the smooth chocolate.
- Chocolate shavings: Finely shaved chocolate adds a luxurious look and texture.
- Coconut flakes: Sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes offer a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Gold flakes or edible glitter: For a touch of luxury, these can make your brigadeiros perfect for special events like weddings or upscale parties.
Simply roll your brigadeiro balls in the toppings of your choice until they are fully coated. The toppings not only enhance the look of the brigadeiros but also add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
7. Let the Brigadeiros Set
After you’ve rolled and coated your brigadeiros, place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Allow them to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or place them in the fridge to speed up the process.
As they set, they will firm up slightly but remain soft and gooey on the inside. This is the perfect consistency for a brigadeiro.
8. Enjoy Your Gourmet Brigadeiros
Once your brigadeiros have set, they are ready to enjoy! Serve them on a decorative plate, or place them in paper candy cups for a professional touch. These gourmet brigadeiros are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavor, velvety texture, and stunning presentation.
You can store leftover brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for longer freshness.