If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s both luxuriously creamy and irresistibly easy, White Chocolate Brigadeiros are exactly what you need. These Brazilian-inspired bite-sized delights blend silky white chocolate with the sweet complexity of condensed milk, all finished with a sprinkle of coconut or glittering sugared pearls. Whether you’re planning a party, craving an afternoon pick-me-up, or just looking for an ultra-satisfying sweet, these little truffles deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience and a touch of elegance with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Brigadeiros prove that sometimes, the most magical treats come from the simplest of ingredient lists. Each component in White Chocolate Brigadeiros plays a unique role, building richness, smooth texture, and just the right amount of sweetness for a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky finish while preventing the mixture from sticking to the pan.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The heart of every brigadeiro—this adds sweetness, body, and that signature creamy texture.
- White chocolate (finely chopped or chips): For a luscious, vanilla-kissed flavor and that characteristic melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Vanilla extract: Enlivens the chocolate notes with subtle aromatic warmth.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates every other flavor in the mix.
- White sprinkles or shredded coconut for rolling: Provides a final festive touch and satisfying textural contrast to the creamy inside.
How to Make White Chocolate Brigadeiros
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by setting your saucepan over medium-low heat and melting the butter. This step is so much more than just melting fat—it creates a rich flavor base and ensures your brigadeiros will be luxuriously smooth and easy to roll later on. Be careful not to let it brown; you want it just melted and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and White Chocolate
Once the butter is melted, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and add all your finely chopped white chocolate or chips. Stir the mixture constantly with a heat-proof spatula or wooden spoon. This is when things start to transform, and you’ll see the chocolate melt into the milk, creating a glossy, unified mixture that hints at the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Cook and Thicken
Keep stirring! Continue over medium-low heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know the mixture is ready when it becomes thick, creamy, and starts pulling away from the sides and bottom of the pan as you mix. It should be thick enough that you can see a trail on the bottom of the pan when you scoop your spatula through.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Salt
Immediately remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt. This quick final swirl makes the chocolate’s flavor pop and rounds out the sweetness, creating that signature White Chocolate Brigadeiros flavor profile.
Step 5: Cool the Mixture
Spread the brigadeiro mixture onto a greased dish or plate, smoothing it into an even layer. Allow it to cool completely; you can speed things up by placing it in the fridge. Don’t rush this step—a cool mixture makes for the easiest, neatest rolling later on.
Step 6: Shape Into Balls
Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking, then scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. This is the fun part—feeling the perfect texture and seeing each brigadeiro take shape is such a satisfying reward for your patience!
Step 7: Roll in Sprinkles or Coconut
Finish your White Chocolate Brigadeiros by gently rolling each ball in white sprinkles, shredded coconut, or even something playful like edible glitter. Nestle each finished truffle into a mini paper cup for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.
How to Serve White Chocolate Brigadeiros
Garnishes
A handful of garnish options can elevate these truffles to centerpiece status. Classic white sprinkles catch the light beautifully, while a dusting of shredded coconut brings a snowy, tropical vibe. For a little glamour, try crushed freeze-dried strawberries or edible glitter to make your White Chocolate Brigadeiros the true stars of any dessert table.
Side Dishes
Pairing brigadeiros with other treats can turn dessert into an event. Serve them alongside fresh strawberries, a bowl of juicy mango chunks, or a cup of strong coffee to balance out the sweetness. If you’re hosting a celebration, try arranging them beside other Brazilian favorites like pão de queijo or coconut flan.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity shine in the presentation. Arrange the brigadeiros on a three-tiered platter for parties, box them up in pretty gift boxes for a homemade present, or scatter edible flowers on the serving tray for an extra dose of magic. Mini cupcake liners in gold, pastel, or even themed colors can help match any occasion and show off your White Chocolate Brigadeiros in style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These truffles keep wonderfully when covered and refrigerated for up to five days. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, and they’ll stay soft and creamy without losing their shine or bite. Perfect for prepping ahead before a party or as a sweet lunchbox surprise during the week!
Freezing
If you want to make White Chocolate Brigadeiros even further ahead, freezing is an option. Once rolled and coated, line them up on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw gently in the fridge so they regain their creamy texture.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat brigadeiros, as they’re meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If they’ve been in the fridge or freezer, allow them to sit out for about 10 minutes to take the chill off before serving—this lets the flavors shine and the texture soften just enough for the perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of a bar?
Absolutely! White chocolate chips melt beautifully and save a bit of chopping time, though the quality of your white chocolate will always impact the final flavor—go for the good stuff if you can.
Why is my brigadeiro mixture too runny to roll?
If the mixture is still soft, it likely needs a bit more cooking time. Return it to the pan and stir over medium-low heat until it thickens and you can see the pan bottom while stirring. Cooling thoroughly is also key to making perfect White Chocolate Brigadeiros balls.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! White Chocolate Brigadeiros are an ideal make-ahead dessert. Simply make and shape them the day before, store in the fridge, and they’ll be ready for any celebration or event, tasting just as fresh.
Is it possible to flavor these with extracts or liqueurs?
Definitely! Try swapping out half the vanilla for almond or coconut extract, or add a splash of orange liqueur (just a tiny amount) for a fun adult twist. Small changes can give these classic treats an exciting flavor profile.
What other toppings work besides coconut and sprinkles?
Let your imagination guide you! Crushed freeze-dried raspberries, finely chopped nuts (if allergies aren’t a concern), or edible gold dust all look stunning and provide lovely textures for your White Chocolate Brigadeiros.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about whipping up a batch of White Chocolate Brigadeiros—each step promises a moment of joy, from stirring the velvety mixture to rolling each truffle in sparkling toppings. Whether you’re new to Brazilian sweets or have loved brigadeiros for years, I hope you give this recipe a try and share the sweet bliss with someone you love!
Print
White Chocolate Brigadeiros Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour (includes cooling)
- Yield: 20 brigadeiros 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy sweetness of these White Chocolate Brigadeiros, Brazilian truffles that melt in your mouth. Made with white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla, these no-bake delights are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Brigadeiros:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 4 ounces white chocolate (finely chopped or chips)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- White sprinkles or shredded coconut for rolling
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a medium nonstick saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add Ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate, stirring constantly until melted and thickened.
- Cook Mixture: Cook for about 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Finish Brigadeiros: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool, then roll into balls and coat with sprinkles or coconut.
- Serve: Place in mini paper cups for serving.
Notes
- Use good-quality white chocolate for the best results.
- Brigadeiros can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- For added variety, try rolling in crushed freeze-dried strawberries or edible glitter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brigadeiro
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
