Name: Pistachio Brigadeiro Recipe
Prep time: PT-487511H26M10S
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 3 h 27 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; ⅔ cup heavy cream; ½ cup finely ground pistachios plus 2 tablespoons for coating; 2 teaspoons light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon unsalted butter

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If you’re looking for something irresistibly creamy, endlessly snackable, and just elegant enough to impress, you have to try Pistachio Brigadeiro. This classic Brazilian treat gets a magical makeover when laced with nutty pistachios, transforming every bite into a melt-in-your-mouth, delicately sweet confection. Whether you’re planning a party or craving a little kitchen fun, Pistachio Brigadeiro wows with its simplicity, gorgeous color, and curly bite-sized format. They’re little green jewels that simply disappear from the dessert table!

Pistachio Brigadeiro Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a few intentionally chosen staples, but each one plays an important role in the finished Pistachio Brigadeiro. The payoff? That signature silky chew and nutty richness that make these bites unforgettable.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This velvety, sweet base is what gives brigadeiro their famous fudgy texture.
Heavy Cream: Adds depth and a luscious, creamy finish that makes each bite extra dreamy.
Finely Ground Pistachios: The star of the show for both flavor and that beautiful subtle green color; don’t forget the extra for coating!
Light Corn Syrup: Keeps the brigadeiro luxuriously smooth and helps prevent crystallization as they set.
Unsalted Butter: Just a touch adds gloss and a rich finish—plus, it’s key for successful rolling later on!

How to Make Pistachio Brigadeiro

Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients

Before you start, measure everything out and prep your pistachios by pulsing them in a food processor until fine—but not quite a paste. This not only makes the process seamless but sets you up for that signature Pistachio Brigadeiro texture.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, ½ cup ground pistachios, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly (and scraping the edges so nothing scorches), until thickened enough that you can run your spatula along the bottom of the pan and see it briefly—about 10 to 12 minutes. The mixture will be glossy, fragrant, and creamy.

Step 3: Cool the Brigadeiro Base

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish (to help it cool faster) and let it sit at room temperature until no longer hot. This is crucial—working with warm brigadeiro can be downright sticky! Once it’s cooled, transfer to the fridge for at least 3 to 4 hours to firm up properly for rolling.

Step 4: Shape into Balls

Once the Pistachio Brigadeiro mixture is chilled and firm, butter your hands or use a small scoop to portion out about 1-inch balls. Roll them gently between your palms until smooth—don’t rush, enjoy this tactile moment!

Step 5: Coat with Pistachios

Roll each chilled ball in the reserved ground pistachios, gently pressing so the beautiful green flecks adhere to every surface. Arrange your finished brigadeiros on a tray and, if you can resist, let them chill again briefly for the most irresistible, neat presentation.

How to Serve Pistachio Brigadeiro

Garnishes

For a charming finish, nestle each Pistachio Brigadeiro in a mini cupcake liner and top with a whole pistachio or crushed edible dried rose petals. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate offers both flair and even more sweetness.

Side Dishes

Classic brigadeiros pair beautifully with coffee, espresso, or a glass of sparkling wine. If you’re making a dessert spread, offer them alongside fresh fruit, dark chocolate squares, or simple butter cookies to set off their creamy, nutty flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile Pistachio Brigadeiro high on a tiered stand for a festive look, or pop them onto skewers for a brigadeiro “bouquet.” For a modern twist, serve them in jars layered with extra chopped pistachios or as petite party favors in pretty boxes. Their pop of green brightens any table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pistachio Brigadeiro in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Separate layers with parchment so they stay neat, and always bring to room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest mouthfeel before enjoying again.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze them! Arrange brigadeiros on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. When you’re craving a treat, thaw what you need overnight in the fridge—they’ll taste freshly made.

Reheating

No reheating needed—these little gems are delicious right from the fridge or at room temperature. If you’ve just thawed frozen ones, let them be for an hour at room temp before serving to soften to that signature Pistachio Brigadeiro texture.

FAQs

Can I use pistachio paste instead of ground pistachios?

Absolutely! Replace some or all of the ground pistachios with pistachio paste for an intensified nutty taste and an even greener hue. Just be mindful to keep overall ratios so the mixture sets properly.

What if I don’t have light corn syrup?

You can substitute glucose syrup or even honey in a pinch, but corn syrup is best for that classic brigadeiro smoothness and to prevent any graininess as they cool.

Can I make Pistachio Brigadeiro ahead for a party?

Yes, these are an entertainer’s dream. Shape and coat them up to two days ahead, store in an airtight box, and display just before guests arrive for maximum freshness and charm.

How do I avoid a sticky mess when rolling?

Always chill your brigadeiro base thoroughly! Lightly buttering your hands or using a silicone scoop helps prevent stickiness, keeping the experience fun and mess-free.

Can I use different nuts for variety?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with finely ground hazelnuts, almonds, or even pecans. Switching up the nut alters the flavor profile but keeps that beloved brigadeiro spirit intact.

Final Thoughts

I can never resist making a batch of Pistachio Brigadeiro—they’re such a joyful treat, perfect for sharing or savoring alongside your afternoon coffee. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just making a regular day festive, these nutty green confections deliver pure delight in every bite. Give this recipe a try and let Pistachio Brigadeiro become a bright spot in your dessert repertoire!

Pistachio Brigadeiro Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 27 minutes
Yield: 20–24 brigadeiros 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, nutty goodness of Pistachio Brigadeiro, a delightful Brazilian sweet treat. These luscious pistachio truffles are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Brigadeiro Mixture:

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
⅔ cup heavy cream
½ cup finely ground pistachios plus 2 tablespoons for coating
2 teaspoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon unsalted butter

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Instructions

Prepare the Brigadeiro Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, ½ cup ground pistachios, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 10–12 minutes.
Chill and Shape: Pour the mixture into a dish, let cool, then refrigerate for 3–4 hours. Roll into balls, coat with pistachios, and serve chilled or at room temperature.