If there is one thing that Brazilians love more than soccer, it is definitely brigadeiro. This sweet and creamy candy is a national icon and can be found in every corner of the country. So, whether you are attending a birthday party, a wedding, or just visiting a friend, you will most likely find a plate full of brigadeiros waiting for you. In this post, we will explore this beloved Brazilian treat’s history, popularity, and recipe.
Image by Júlio Frutuoso from Pixabay
Table of Contents
The Origins of Brigadeiro
The origins of brigadeiro can be traced back to the 1940s, during the Brazilian presidential campaign of Brigadeiro Eduardo Gomes. According to legend, a group of his supporters created a sweet treat made of condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter to raise funds for his campaign. They named the candy after the Brigadeiro, and soon it became a hit among Brazilians. Today, brigadeiro is one of the most popular candies in the country and can be found in various flavors and shapes.
Popularity of Brigadeiro
Brigadeiro is not only popular in Brazil but also worldwide. The candy has gained a following in countries such as the United States, Portugal, and Italy, where it is often served at Brazilian restaurants or sold at specialty stores. In Brazil, brigadeiro is essential to any celebration, from birthdays to weddings to New Year’s Eve. The candy is so popular that it even has its own day, celebrated on October 15th.
Making Brigadeiro
Brigadeiro is very easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. The classic recipe calls for condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles. To make the candy, you will need to mix the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until it thickens and starts to come off the bottom of the pan. Once the mixture has cooled down, roll it into small balls and coat them with chocolate sprinkles.
Here’s a recipe for making brigadeiro at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 can of condensed milk (395g)
– 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Chocolate sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Combine the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a saucepan.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and starts to come off the bottom of the pan.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool down.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls using your hands once cooled.
5. Coat each ball with chocolate sprinkles and place them on a plate.
6. Chill the brigadeiros in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Variations of Brigadeiro
There are countless variations of brigadeiro, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular variations include white chocolate brigadeiro, coconut brigadeiro, and strawberry brigadeiro. In recent years, brigadeiro has also been used as a topping for cakes and cupcakes or as a filling for macarons and truffles.
Conclusion
Brigadeiro is more than just a candy. It is a symbol of Brazilian culture and a source of national pride. So, whether you are a local or a visitor, trying a brigadeiro is a must-do experience. And with this easy recipe, you can now make your brigadeiros at home and enjoy a taste of Brazil anytime you want. So go ahead, indulge in this sweet and creamy treat, and join the millions of Brazilians who love brigadeiro.
