Description
Pistachio Brigadeiros are a delightful Brazilian treat, combining creamy sweetened condensed milk and rich pistachios for a unique twist on the classic chocolate brigadeiro. These bite-sized sweets are rolled into smooth balls coated with finely ground pistachios, perfect for parties or as a decadent snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (14‑oz / 395 g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2/3 cup (≈ 160 ml) heavy cream or crème de lait
- 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp finely ground pistachios, divided (⅔ cup total)
- 2 tsp light corn syrup (or glucose)
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- Pistachio paste or chopped pistachio chocolate for richer flavor
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy‑bottom saucepan, mix the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, a pinch of salt, and ½ cup of finely ground pistachios. Stir the mixture over medium heat.
- Cook Mixture: Whisk constantly while cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the bottom of the pan, which takes about 10–12 minutes. This ensures a smooth, fudgy texture.
- Cool Down: Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the mixture to a greased dish. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 3–4 hours until it firms up enough to handle.
- Prepare Coating: Place the remaining ground pistachios in a shallow bowl for coating the brigadeiros later. Lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking.
- Shape Brigadeiros: Scoop small portions of the chilled mixture, approximately 1-inch balls, and roll them into smooth, round shapes with your hands.
- Coat Brigadeiros: Roll each ball in the extra ground pistachios until fully covered, pressing gently so the nuts adhere well to the surface.
- Chill and Store: Chill the coated brigadeiros until firm before serving. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Lightly greasing your hands prevents the sticky mixture from clinging while rolling.
- If desired, add pistachio paste or chopped pistachio chocolate for a richer flavor variation.
- Proper refrigeration is important to achieve the right consistency for rolling.
- These treats can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature, depending on preference.
- Store brigadeiros in an airtight container to preserve freshness and texture.
