What is Strawberry Brigadeiro?

Strawberry brigadeiro is a variation of the traditional chocolate brigadeiro. Instead of cocoa powder, this recipe uses strawberry flavoring, giving the candy a fruity taste and a lovely pink hue. The result is a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth truffle that’s perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or even as an everyday treat.

How to Make Strawberry Brigadeiro

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Ingredients

1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons strawberry jelly or 0.8 oz freeze-dried strawberries pulverized into a powder
Pink gel food coloring optional
Coatings: freeze-dried strawberry powder pink sugar, sprinkles, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts

Instructions

Cook the Mixture:
Combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and strawberry jelly or freeze-dried strawberry powder in a heavy saucepan.
Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
Cool and Shape:
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool completely.
Grease or dampen your hands and roll the mixture into small balls (about a teaspoon each).
Coat and Decorate:
Roll the balls in your choice of coating, such as freeze-dried strawberry powder, sprinkles, or pink sugar.
Place the finished candies in small paper liners for a festive touch.

Variations and Creative Twists

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Brigadeiro: Dip the rolled candies in melted chocolate for a crisp outer shell and a chewy center.
Colorful Coatings: Use pink, red, and white nonpareils for a Valentine’s Day theme or customize for other holidays.
Alternative Flavors: Substitute strawberry jelly with raspberry or cherry jelly for a different fruity taste.

Tips for Perfect Brigadeiro

Cooking Consistency: The mixture is ready when you can run your spatula through it, and the trail remains visible for 2-3 seconds.
Shaping: Grease your hands lightly to prevent sticking when rolling the candies.
Storage: Store brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, though they’re best enjoyed at room temperature.

Where to Buy Strawberry Brigadeiro

If you’re not up for making them yourself, many online stores and specialty Brazilian bakeries sell strawberry brigadeiros. Check out platforms like Amazon for ready-made candies or ingredients like freeze-dried strawberries.

Why the World Loves Brigadeiros

Brigadeiros have gained global popularity, with features in prominent publications like the New York Times. These little treats are a testament to the versatility of sweetened condensed milk, a staple in Brazilian desserts.

Conclusion

Strawberry brigadeiros are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of condensed milk with the fruity burst of strawberries. Whether you make them for a party, gift them to friends, or enjoy them as a sweet indulgence, these candies are sure to impress. Try making a batch today and savor the taste of Brazil with a fruity twist!