18 Irresistible Brigadeiro Recipes for Every Occasion

Craving a bite-sized treat that’s rich, fudgy, and utterly addictive? Meet brigadeiros—Brazil’s beloved chocolate truffles that are as fun to make as they are to devour! Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick dessert fix, or just want to indulge, we’ve rounded up 18 irresistible brigadeiro recipes for every occasion. Get ready to roll, dip, and drizzle your way to sweet perfection!

Classic Chocolate Brigadeiro

These Brazilian truffles are irresistibly fudgy, with a deep chocolate flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture—perfect for parties or sweet cravings!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for rolling
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Chocolate sprinkles (about ½ cup for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, 3 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tbsp butter, ½ tsp vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan.
2. Pour the mixture into a greased plate and let it cool to room temperature (about 30 minutes).
3. Lightly butter your hands, then roll teaspoon-sized portions into balls. Immediately coat each in chocolate sprinkles.

The magic of brigadeiros lies in their glossy, velvety texture—like a cross between fudge and caramel. They’re dangerously easy to pop in your mouth!

Tip: For a twist, roll them in crushed nuts or coconut flakes instead of sprinkles.

Strawberry Brigadeiro with Fresh Berries

These creamy, fruity Brazilian truffles are a dreamy twist on the classic brigadeiro, with fresh strawberries adding a bright pop of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup pink sanding sugar (for rolling)
• 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chopped strawberries, and butter. Cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should leave a clear trail when you drag the spatula).
2. Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. With buttered hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls, then immediately roll each in pink sanding sugar to coat.
4. Arrange brigadeiros on a platter with fresh berries and serve at room temperature.

The magic here is how the tart strawberries balance the rich sweetness—plus, that vibrant pink sugar coating makes these irresistible for parties.

Tip: For extra strawberry flavor, swap the sanding sugar for freeze-dried strawberry powder.

Coffee-Infused Brigadeiro

These Brazilian truffles get a cozy upgrade with a hint of espresso, making them the perfect after-dinner treat or a grown-up party snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for hands
• ⅓ cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions:

1. In a small nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and 1 tbsp butter. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold its shape when you drag the spoon through).
2. Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. Butter your hands lightly, then roll teaspoon-sized portions into balls. Immediately roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles to coat fully.
4. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 15 minutes to set.

The espresso deepens the chocolate flavor without overpowering it, giving these fudgy bites a sophisticated edge. They’re dangerously easy to pop in your mouth!

Tip: For a stronger coffee kick, swap the espresso powder for 1 tbsp finely ground dark roast coffee.

White Chocolate Brigadeiro

These creamy Brazilian truffles get a dreamy upgrade with white chocolate, making them irresistibly smooth and just sweet enough.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup high-quality white chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and white chocolate chips. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula for 8–10 minutes until the chocolate melts and the mixture thickens (it should pull away from the pan when tilted).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Pour into a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface, and chill for 2 hours or until firm enough to handle.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, then coat immediately in sprinkles. Place on parchment paper and chill for 30 minutes to set.

The magic here? The heavy cream gives these brigadeiros a velvety texture that melts on your tongue—no gritty sugar crystals in sight!

Tip: For clean rolling, lightly grease your hands with butter or wear food-safe gloves.

Nutella-Stuffed Brigadeiro

These bite-sized Brazilian truffles get a dreamy upgrade with a molten Nutella center—perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings in one indulgent bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup Nutella, chilled
• 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir constantly for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (like fudge).
2. Transfer to a greased plate and let cool for 15 minutes until handleable but still warm.
3. Scoop 1 tbsp of the brigadeiro mixture, flatten it, and place 1/2 tsp chilled Nutella in the center. Seal the edges and roll into a smooth ball.
4. Immediately roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles to coat completely. Repeat with remaining mixture.
5. Chill for 20 minutes before serving to let the Nutella center set slightly.

The magic? Cutting into these reveals a gooey, ribbon-like Nutella surprise—no fancy piping required!

Tip: For neat rolling, lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.

Coconut Brigadeiro with Toasted Shreds

These creamy Brazilian truffles get a tropical twist with coconut milk and a crunchy toasted coconut coating—perfect for gifting or indulging!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, divided
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a line when scraped).
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup shredded coconut. Let cool for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for 1 hour until firm enough to handle.
3. Meanwhile, toast the remaining 1/4 cup shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden. Cool completely.
4. Mix toasted coconut with sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled mixture into balls, then coat in the coconut-sugar mixture.

The contrast of the fudgy center and crispy toasted coconut makes these irresistible—plus, they’re naturally gluten-free! Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Pistachio Brigadeiro with Crushed Nuts

These creamy, nutty Brazilian truffles are a dreamy twist on the classic brigadeiro—perfect for gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup finely ground pistachios (plus extra for rolling)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup ground pistachios, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold its shape when you scrape the spoon across the bottom).
2. Transfer to a greased plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. With buttered hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls, then coat in crushed pistachios. Place on parchment paper.
4. Chill for 20 minutes before serving to firm up.

The nutty crunch against the fudgy center makes these irresistible—plus, the vibrant green pistachios give them a festive pop!

Tip: For extra flavor, toast the pistachios before grinding.

Caramel Brigadeiro with Sea Salt

These Brazilian-inspired caramel truffles are rich, fudgy, and perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt—irresistible for any sweet tooth!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt, plus extra for garnish
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, butter, and brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 10–12 minutes until thickened (it should pull away from the pan when tilted).
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp sea salt. Pour into a greased bowl and chill for 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Dust hands lightly with cocoa powder to prevent sticking if needed.
4. Roll each brigadeiro in cocoa powder, then place on a tray. Press a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt onto the top of each.

The magic here? The caramelized brown sugar deepens the flavor, while the sea salt cuts through the sweetness for a seriously addictive bite.

Tip: For a smoother texture, use a mini ice cream scoop to portion the mixture before rolling.

Oreo Crunch Brigadeiro

These Brazilian-inspired truffles get a fun twist with crushed Oreos, making them irresistibly creamy with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely crushed Oreo cookies (about 10 cookies), divided
• 1/4 cup chocolate sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring constantly with a spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a soft shape when scraped).
2. Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the crushed Oreos. Let cool for 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. With lightly greased hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls, then roll half in the remaining 1/4 cup Oreo crumbs and the other half in chocolate sprinkles.
4. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to set before serving.

The magic here? The Oreo bits stay delightfully crisp against the fudgy brigadeiro base—a textural dream!

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle melted white chocolate over the sprinkle-coated truffles.

Matcha Green Tea Brigadeiro

These creamy, earthy-sweet Brazilian truffles get a vibrant upgrade with matcha powder—perfect for gifting or a fancy little treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp high-quality matcha powder (culinary grade), plus extra for dusting
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, 2 tbsp matcha powder, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a soft shape when scraped).
3. Transfer to a greased plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
4. With lightly oiled hands, roll into 1-inch balls, then dust with extra matcha powder. Chill for 20 minutes before serving.

The matcha adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness, while the velvety texture makes these irresistible. Tip: For extra flair, roll some in toasted coconut or finely chopped pistachios!

Peanut Butter Brigadeiro

These Peanut Butter Brigadeiros are like little bites of joy—creamy, nutty, and irresistibly fudgy. They’re a fun twist on the classic Brazilian treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in under 30 minutes!

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for rolling)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts (for rolling)

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and butter. Stir constantly with a spatula for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should leave a clean trail when scraped).
2. Pour the mixture into a greased plate and let it cool for 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. Once cool enough to handle, roll teaspoon-sized portions into balls. Dip each one in cocoa powder or chopped peanuts, coating evenly.

The magic here? The peanut butter adds a salty-sweet depth that balances the richness of the condensed milk—no baking required! These brigadeiros stay gloriously soft but hold their shape, making them ideal for gifting or party trays.

Tip: For extra shine, lightly butter your hands before rolling to prevent sticking.

Raspberry Swirl Brigadeiro

These Brazilian-inspired truffles get a fruity twist with a vibrant raspberry swirl—perfect for gifting or a sweet little treat with coffee.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for rolling
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a soft shape when scraped).
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool for 5 minutes, then dollop raspberry jam on top. Use a knife to gently swirl it in—don’t overmix!
3. Transfer to a greased plate and chill for 30 minutes until firm enough to handle.
4. Butter your hands, then roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls. Immediately roll in sprinkles before they set.

The tangy raspberry ripple cuts through the rich chocolate, making these irresistibly pretty and balanced. Tip: For a smoother swirl, warm the jam slightly before adding.

Lemon Zest Brigadeiro

These Brazilian-inspired truffles get a sunny twist with bright lemon zest, making them a refreshingly sweet bite for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for rolling
• 2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for coating

Instructions

1. In a small nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and lemon zest. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a line when scraped).
2. Transfer to a lightly buttered plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. With buttered hands, roll teaspoon-sized portions into balls, then coat each in powdered sugar.

The lemon zest cuts through the richness of the condensed milk, giving these brigadeiros a lively, almost floral finish. Perfect for gifting or a post-dinner treat!

Tip: For extra zing, add a pinch of citric acid to the powdered sugar coating.

Almond Joy Brigadeiro

These bite-sized Brazilian truffles get a fun twist with coconut, almonds, and chocolate—like your favorite candy bar in dessert form!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for rolling
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup finely chopped toasted almonds
• 1/4 cup chocolate sprinkles (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick skillet, combine sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1 tbsp butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until thickened (8–10 minutes)—it’s ready when pulling the spatula leaves a clean path on the pan bottom.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup shredded coconut and 1/3 cup almonds. Spread onto a buttered plate and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Butter your hands and roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls. Immediately roll each in 1/4 cup chocolate sprinkles to coat.
4. Transfer to mini cupcake liners and chill for 15 minutes before serving.

The chewy coconut-almond center and crackly chocolate shell make these irresistible at room temperature—perfect for gifting or potlucks!

Tip: For extra Almond Joy vibes, press a whole toasted almond on top of each brigadeiro before chilling.

Dark Chocolate Truffle Brigadeiro

These Brazilian-inspired truffles are rich, fudgy, and coated in a crackly dark chocolate shell—perfect for gifting or indulging after dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (60-70% cacao)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (or neutral oil)
• Optional: 1/4 cup cocoa powder or sprinkles for rolling

Instructions:

1. In a nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, 3 tbsp cocoa powder, butter, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring constantly with a spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (like fudge). Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla.
2. Spread the mixture onto a greased plate and chill for 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle.
3. Scoop 1-tbsp portions and roll into balls. Freeze on a parchment-lined tray for 15 minutes.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips with 1 tbsp coconut oil in 20-second microwave bursts, stirring until smooth. Dip each chilled ball into the chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place on parchment and let set (about 10 minutes). For extra texture, roll in cocoa powder or sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.

The magic here? That molten chocolate shell gives way to a velvety center—like a truffle and fudge had the perfect love child.

Tip: For cleaner dipping, use a fork to lower and lift the truffles, tapping off excess chocolate against the bowl’s rim.

Salted Caramel Brigadeiro

These Salted Caramel Brigadeiros are bite-sized Brazilian truffles with a gooey, buttery caramel center and a hint of sea salt—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without fuss.

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for rolling
• 1/4 cup dulce de leche (or thick caramel sauce)
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt, plus extra for garnish
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder, for coating

1. In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, 2 tbsp butter, dulce de leche, and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should resemble thick pudding).
2. Pour into a greased plate and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. With buttered hands, roll teaspoon-sized portions into balls, then coat each in cocoa powder. Press a tiny pinch of flaky salt on top.

The magic here? That contrast between the rich caramel and the salty crunch—it’s addictive after just one bite. Store leftovers in an airtight container (if they last!).

Tip: For extra shine, roll them in melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder before adding salt.

Banana Pudding Brigadeiro

These creamy, tropical-inspired brigadeiros are like bite-sized banana pudding with a caramelized twist—perfect for potlucks or a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup vanilla wafer crumbs (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a medium nonstick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, mashed banana, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a trail when you drag the spatula).
2. Pour the mixture into a greased plate and let it cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, then coat each in vanilla wafer crumbs. Place in mini cupcake liners.

The magic here? Cooking the banana with the condensed milk deepens its flavor, giving these fudgy bites a caramelized richness that’s impossible to resist.

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with melted white chocolate or top with a tiny banana slice before serving.

Chocolate Mint Brigadeiro

These fudgy Brazilian truffles get a refreshing twist with a hint of peppermint—perfect for gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for hands
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions

1. In a nonstick skillet, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and 1 tbsp butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan (it should hold a line when scraped).
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp peppermint extract. Pour onto a greased plate and let cool 15 minutes until handleable.
3. Butter your hands, then roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls. Immediately roll each in chocolate sprinkles to coat.

The magic here? That cool, creamy melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right balance of rich chocolate and bright mint—no baking required!

Tip: For a festive touch, swap sprinkles for crushed candy canes during the holidays.

Conclusion

With 18 delicious brigadeiro recipes for every occasion, this roundup is your go-to guide for irresistible Brazilian treats! Whether you’re craving classic chocolate or adventurous flavors, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment below, and share the love on Pinterest. Happy cooking—and even happier indulging!