Brazilian Brigadeiro: Pralines Made From Sweet Condensed Milk

Are you one of those people who love a trip to a gourmet chocolate or candy store? The beautiful pralines on display are works of art indeed! And although irresistible, they often come with a pretty price. Why not try making your own pralines right at home? This simple recipe is very popular in Brazil, and it does not disappoint! And if chocolate is not your favorite, the coconut version is certainly a delicious alternative. 

You will need:

For the chocolate version:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 4 tbsp cocoa powder
• chocolate sprinkles

For the coconut version:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp coconut flakes  (plus extra to garnish)

Here's how:

Chocolate:

1. Melt the butter in a pan and add the condensed milk and cocoa powder.  
2. Heat the ingredients until they form a thick paste.
3. Spread the mixture onto a plate and refrigerate for one hour.
4. The mixture should now be firm enough to handle. Form small balls, and then roll the balls over a plate of chocolate sprinkles. 

Coconut:

1. Melt the butter in a pan and add the condensed milk and coconut flakes.
2. Heat the ingredients until they form a thick paste. 
3. Spread the mixture onto a plate and refrigerate for one hour.
4. The mixture should now be firm enough to handle. Form small balls, and then roll the balls over a plate of coconut flakes.

As it turns out, creating lovely, delicious pralines is both simple and inexpensive. This recipe also leaves plenty of room for experimentation! Add dried fruit or jam to the condensed milk, for example, or roll the pralines in powdered sugar. For a particularly fancy touch, you can even garnish with edible gold leaf! Wow!