White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe
If you adore the rich, creamy sweetness of traditional brigadeiros but crave a touch of elegance and a twist on the classic, this White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe is going to be your new favorite indulgence. These bite-sized delights bring the smoothness of melted white chocolate together with the lusciousness of sweetened condensed milk, creating irresistible candies that melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them to friends, or simply treating yourself, these brigadeiros promise a beautiful balance of texture and flavor that’s sure to enchant anyone lucky enough to try them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each plays an important role in achieving the perfectly silky texture, subtle vanilla notes, and that signature creamy sweetness you expect from brigadeiros. Gathering them is like inviting a handful of kitchen superheroes to perform together in one delicious act.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The star ingredient providing that rich, creamy body that binds everything together effortlessly.
- White chocolate: Chopped or chips work beautifully to infuse the brigadeiros with that distinctive, mellow, and velvety sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a subtle silkiness and richness, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: A splash enhances the flavor depth and brings out the best in the white chocolate.
- Salt: Just a pinch to heighten the sweetness and round out the flavors wonderfully.
- White chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or desiccated coconut: For an inviting coating that adds texture and a pretty finish.
How to Make White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Melt Ingredients
Start by gathering your can of sweetened condensed milk, chopped white chocolate, and unsalted butter in a medium saucepan. Place over low to medium heat and stir constantly, allowing the butter and white chocolate to gently melt and blend with the condensed milk. Adding the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt at this stage infuses the mixture with subtle warmth and a little flavor magic.
Step 2: Cook Until Thickened
Keep stirring the mixture continuously to prevent sticking or burning. After about 10 to 15 minutes, the mixture will thicken noticeably — it should be thick enough to show the bottom of the pan for a couple of seconds when you scrape with a spatula. This step is crucial for achieving the classic brigadeiro texture that is neither too runny nor too dry.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the thickened mixture to a greased dish or bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then cover and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop and shape. Patience here really pays off because it helps the brigadeiros hold their shape beautifully.
Step 4: Shape and Coat the Brigadeiros
Once chilled, grease your hands lightly with butter and scoop small portions of the mixture, rolling them between your palms into smooth little balls. Then roll each ball over your choice of white chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or desiccated coconut for that irresistible outer texture and visual appeal.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your gorgeous white chocolate brigadeiros on a pretty platter or cupcake liners and watch as they quickly disappear. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or just indulging yourself whenever a craving strikes.
How to Serve White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic coating options are divine, you can add an extra flair by sprinkling edible gold dust or a few tiny dried rose petals for an elegant touch. These little extras elevate the brigadeiros, making them perfect for special occasions or as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet bites with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a lightly floral tea like chamomile or jasmine to balance the creamy sweetness. They also make a delightful after-dinner treat alongside fresh berries, offering a contrasting burst of tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, place each brigadeiro in colorful mini cupcake liners or in small clear boxes tied with a satin ribbon. You can even serve them atop a mini pedestal or a tiered dessert stand for weddings, birthdays, or any joyous celebration that deserves a sweet highlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These brigadeiros keep wonderfully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them cool helps preserve their creamy texture while still making them easy to enjoy whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the brigadeiros individually on a baking sheet until firm and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Reheating
For the best experience, allow the brigadeiros to come to room temperature naturally after refrigeration or freezing. You can gently warm them for a few seconds in the microwave if needed, but avoid overheating to preserve that signature silky texture.
FAQs
Can I make White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe without white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can chop a good-quality white chocolate bar instead of using chips. The key is to use chocolate with a creamy, smooth texture to ensure your brigadeiros turn out perfectly rich and luscious.
What can I use if I don’t have vanilla extract?
If you’re out of vanilla, you can skip it or try using a small amount of vanilla bean paste or even almond extract for a different but equally delicious flavor twist.
How do I know when the brigadeiro mixture is cooked enough?
The mixture is ready when it thickens enough so that when you scrape the bottom of the pan with a spatula, the trail stays visible for a couple of seconds before the mixture flows back. This texture ensures your brigadeiros will hold shape and have a chewy, satisfying bite.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While unsalted butter is preferred to better control the salt balance, salted butter can be used in a pinch. Just omit or reduce the added pinch of salt to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
Are White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! These brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent treat for guests with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure your toppings like sprinkles are also gluten-free if needed.
Final Thoughts
Making this White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe is like inviting a little slice of Brazilian sweetness into your kitchen, elevated by the creamy magic of white chocolate. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, making it a joy to prepare and share with loved ones. Go ahead and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for this delightful, melt-in-your-mouth adventure.
Print
White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
Description
White Chocolate Brigadeiros are a delicious Brazilian treat made from condensed milk and white chocolate, rolled in white chocolate shavings or coconut for a creamy, sweet bite-sized dessert. Perfect for parties or as a sweet snack, these no-bake truffles offer a smooth, rich flavor with a delicate vanilla hint.
Ingredients
Brigadeiro Mixture
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped (or use white chocolate chips)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Coating
- 1/2 cup white chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or desiccated coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a medium non-stick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped white chocolate, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring the mixture doesn’t stick or burn. Continue cooking for about 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens, becoming glossy and dense enough to show the pan bottom when stirred.
- Cool the mixture: Transfer the cooked mixture to a greased bowl or plate and let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Shape the brigadeiros: Once chilled, grease your hands with butter and scoop small portions of the mixture. Roll them between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls.
- Coat the brigadeiros: Roll each ball in white chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or desiccated coconut until fully coated. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Serve and store: Serve immediately or keep the brigadeiros refrigerated in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
Notes
- Use a non-stick pan for easier cooking and stirring.
- Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
- Chilling the mixture is essential to help with shaping the brigadeiros.
- You can substitute the white chocolate toppings with colored sprinkles or nuts for variation.
- Store brigadeiros in the refrigerator to maintain texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
