Description
Pistachio Brigadeiro is a delightful Brazilian treat that combines the sweet, creamy texture of traditional brigadeiros with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios. These bite-sized sweets are made by cooking sweetened condensed milk with butter and finely ground pistachios until thickened, then chilled, shaped into balls, and rolled in extra pistachios for a crunchy coating. Perfect for parties, dessert tables, or anytime you crave a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth confection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup finely ground pistachios
- Pinch of salt
- Extra finely ground pistachios for rolling (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, finely ground pistachios, and a pinch of salt to create the base mixture for the brigadeiros.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking, cooking the mixture until it thickens and starts pulling away from the sides of the pan, typically about 10-12 minutes.
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the thickened mixture to a greased dish and let it cool completely to room temperature. Then refrigerate for about 2 hours until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
- Shape the Brigadeiros: Lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking. Take small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into 1-inch diameter balls.
- Roll in Pistachios: Spread the extra finely ground pistachios in a shallow bowl. Roll each brigadeiro ball in the pistachios until fully coated, giving them a crunchy exterior.
- Serve: Arrange the pistachio-coated brigadeiros on a serving plate. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes
- Constant stirring during cooking is essential to avoid burning and ensure the right texture.
- Use finely ground pistachios for the mixture and extra finely ground for rolling to create a smooth yet crunchy texture.
- Make sure the mixture is completely cooled and chilled before shaping to prevent sticking.
- Store brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature; refrigeration can harden the texture undesirably.
- If pistachios are not available, a similar nut like almonds or hazelnuts can be used as a substitute.
