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Pistachio Brigadeiro

Pistachio Brigadeiro

Pistachio Brigadeiro is a rich, creamy, and nutty twist on the traditional Brazilian fudge-like sweet. Made with sweetened condensed milk, butter, and pistachio paste, it offers a luscious texture and vibrant green color. Perfect for festive occasions, gifting, or cozy evenings, this indulgent treat brings a delightful pistachio flavor and smooth melt-in-your-mouth experience.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 20-25 brigadeiros 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 can (14 oz / 395 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons pistachio paste

Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (optional)

Coating

  • Finishing sugar or crushed pistachios, for rolling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized non-stick pan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and pistachio paste over medium-low heat. Stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning and allow the mixture to heat evenly.
  2. Cook to the Perfect Consistency: Keep stirring for about 10-15 minutes until the brigadeiro mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the pan slightly, creating a dense, fudge-like texture. This stage is crucial to achieve that classic brigadeiro mouthfeel.
  3. Add White Chocolate and Nuts: Once thickened, stir in chopped pistachios and melted white chocolate to introduce extra creaminess and crunchy bits. Mix well to evenly distribute flavors and texture.
  4. Cool the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a greased dish and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up before shaping into balls.
  5. Shape and Coat: Using greased hands or a small scoop, form the chilled brigadeiro mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in crushed pistachios, finishing sugar, or additional chopped nuts for a beautiful textured coating.

Notes

  • Use quality pistachio paste for the best flavor and vibrant color without additives.
  • Consistent stirring is essential to prevent lumps and ensure smooth cooking.
  • A non-stick pan makes mixing and cleanup easier.
  • Allow proper chilling time to help the brigadeiros hold their shape during rolling.
  • Customize coatings by experimenting with different nuts, sugars, or cocoa powder for unique finishes.
  • Grease your hands or use a scoop when shaping to prevent sticking.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Brazilian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brigadeiro (approx. 20g)
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 25mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Pistachio Brigadeiro, Brazilian dessert, pistachio sweets, nutty fudge, creamy treats, easy brigadeiro recipe, nut-based candy