If you’ve ever dreamed of a treat that perfectly blends the creamy, chocolaty goodness of Brazilian brigadeiro with the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts, then this Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. These little balls of joy are irresistibly smooth, subtly sweet, and coated with crunchy hazelnuts for a texture and taste experience that’s downright addictive. Whether it’s for a party, dessert table, or a cozy night in, this recipe brings a playful twist to a beloved Brazilian classic that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to try it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe is all about simplicity with ingredients that are easy to find but crucial for getting that perfect, rich flavor and luscious texture. Each one plays a key role in making these brigadeiros irresistibly creamy, chocolatey, and nutty.
- 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa: Brings the deep, chocolate flavor without overpowering sweetness.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to balance the cocoa.
- 1 tbsp hazelnut spread: Infuses a nutty richness that makes these brigadeiros extra special.
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk: The base of the brigadeiro, it gives sweetness and that signature fudgy consistency.
- ½ cup hazelnuts (chopped): For rolling, these add a delightful crunch and a burst of nutty flavor.
How to Make Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by adding the cocoa, butter, hazelnut spread, and sweetened condensed milk to a medium saucepan over medium heat. This combination fuses the chocolatey cocoa and nutty hazelnut spread into a silky base that’s the heart of the brigadeiro.
Step 2: Stir and Thicken
Keep the mixture moving with a wooden spoon for about 15 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens significantly. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts pulling away from the pan’s sides — this thickness is what lets the brigadeiros hold their shape once cooled.
Step 3: Cool the Mixture
Remove the pan from heat and allow the brigadeiro mixture to cool for roughly 20 minutes. It should be cool enough to handle comfortably but still pliable — this is key to the rolling process that follows.
Step 4: Scoop and Roll
Use a small buttered spoon to scoop out the chocolate mixture, then butter your palms lightly to prevent sticking and roll each scoop into a smooth, quarter-sized ball. The buttery hands make the process so much easier and more fun!
Step 5: Coat with Chopped Hazelnuts
Roll each ball in the chopped hazelnuts, coating them evenly and adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. This final step elevates the texture and flavor, creating that perfect nutty finish.
Step 6: Present and Chill
Place the rolled brigadeiros in paper candy cups or mini muffin cups to keep them neat and easy to serve. Pop them in the fridge for a bit if you prefer a firmer bite, or serve them at room temperature for a softer, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
How to Serve Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe
Garnishes
While the chopped hazelnuts are a star garnish, you can also get creative by dusting some extra cocoa powder or even finely grated dark chocolate on top for a luxurious presentation. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance the flavors beautifully if you like a contrast of sweet and savory.
Side Dishes
These brigadeiros pair wonderfully with a strong coffee or espresso, balancing the sweetness naturally. If you’re looking to create a dessert platter, fresh berries or slices of citrus fruit can provide bright, refreshing notes that complement the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the brigadeiros on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of extra chopped hazelnuts and cocoa powder for dipping. They also make adorable edible gifts when placed in decorative boxes with ribbons, perfect for sharing the joy of this Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any brigadeiros left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. Keep in mind that refrigeration may make them a bit firmer, so allowing them to come to room temperature before serving is a good idea.
Freezing
You can freeze these delightful sweets for longer storage. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature for an hour or so.
Reheating
Since brigadeiros are best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, let frozen or refrigerated brigadeiros sit out until they warm through naturally before indulging.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! While hazelnuts offer a unique flavor, chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts can be great substitutes, adding their own delicious crunch and nuance.
Is the hazelnut spread essential for the recipe?
It’s a key ingredient that infuses the brigadeiro with that distinct nutty richness, so we recommend including it. However, if you’re out, a bit of nut butter or extra cocoa can work in a pinch.
Can I make these brigadeiros vegan?
Traditional brigadeiros use sweetened condensed milk and butter, but you can find vegan versions of both, allowing you to adapt this Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe to fit a plant-based diet.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, expect about 45 minutes, including cooking and cooling time, making it a fun and relatively quick treat to prepare.
What’s the best way to prevent sticking when rolling the brigadeiros?
Buttering your palms lightly before rolling is the secret! This prevents the sticky chocolate from clinging to your hands and makes forming smooth balls much easier.
Final Thoughts
This Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe is truly a celebration in every bite, blending luscious cocoa and creamy condensed milk with the gourmet twist of hazelnut that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising friends, these brigadeiros are sure to bring smiles and satisfy any sweet craving. Give it a try and enjoy a little piece of Brazil’s beloved dessert with a nutty, chocolaty upgrade!
Print
Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
Description
This Hazelnut Brazilian Brigadeiro recipe offers a luscious twist on the classic Brazilian sweet treat by incorporating creamy hazelnut spread and crunchy hazelnuts. With a rich chocolate and hazelnut flavor, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties or a special dessert indulgence. The brigadeiros have a smooth, fudgy texture rolled in chopped hazelnuts for added crunch.
Ingredients
Brigadeiro Mixture
- 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
Coating
- ½ cup hazelnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cocoa powder, butter, hazelnut spread, and sweetened condensed milk to a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the Mixture: Stir continuously for about 15 minutes until the mixture thickens significantly and is very thick, ensuring it doesn’t stick or burn.
- Cool Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside. Allow the brigadeiro mixture to cool for approximately 20 minutes or until it is cool enough to handle comfortably.
- Form Balls: Lightly butter a small spoon and use it to scoop out portions of the chilled mixture. Butter your palms to prevent sticking and roll each portion into a quarter-sized ball.
- Coat with Hazelnuts: Roll each ball gently in the chopped hazelnuts, covering the surface evenly to add crunch and flavor.
- Serve: Place the hazelnut-coated brigadeiro balls into paper candy cups or mini muffin cups, ready to be enjoyed or stored.
Notes
- Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- Make sure to stir the mixture continuously to avoid burning and lump formation.
- Cool mixture adequately before shaping to prevent sticking and deformation.
- Store brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Butter your hands lightly to make rolling easier and prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
