How to Make a Classic Brazilian Beijinho (Coconut Truffle)
Beijinho, meaning “little kiss” in Portuguese, is a beloved Brazilian treat often served during celebrations and holidays. These coconut truffles are a popular dessert in Brazil, similar to their more well-known cousin, Brigadeiro (chocolate truffles). Beijinho is a sweet and creamy confection made with condensed milk, shredded coconut, and butter, coated in more coconut flakes or sugar, and often adorned with a clove on top. Here’s how to make this classic Brazilian dessert at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (395g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar (for coating)
- Whole cloves (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by measuring out all the ingredients. You’ll need sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, unsalted butter, vanilla extract (optional), and sugar for coating. It’s important to use unsweetened shredded coconut for the truffles, as the condensed milk already provides the necessary sweetness.
2. Cook the Beijinho Mixture
In a medium saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and butter. Stir well to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan (about 8-10 minutes). You want the mixture to reach a soft, fudgy consistency that will hold its shape when rolled into balls.
3. Cool the Mixture
Once the mixture is ready, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes at room temperature until it’s comfortable to handle. You can also place it in the fridge for faster cooling, but don’t let it harden too much; it should still be pliable enough to form into small balls.
4. Form the Beijinho Balls
Once the mixture has cooled, grease your hands lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Beijinho is typically smaller than Brigadeiro, so aim for bite-sized truffles.
5. Coat the Truffles
In a small bowl, place the granulated sugar. Roll each coconut ball in the sugar, ensuring that it is evenly coated. If you prefer a more coconutty taste, you can roll the balls in extra shredded coconut instead of sugar. This gives the truffles a beautiful texture and enhances the coconut flavor.
6. Decorate with Cloves
To give your Beijinho an authentic Brazilian touch, gently press a whole clove into the center of each ball. The clove adds a distinctive flavor and also serves as a cute decoration. Be careful not to push too hard, as the cloves should remain upright.
7. Let the Truffles Set
After decorating, let the Beijinhos sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to firm up. If you want to speed up the process, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will help the truffles hold their shape and enhance the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once set, your classic Brazilian Beijinho coconut truffles are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them at a party, family gathering, or as a sweet treat after dinner. These truffles are a hit for any occasion, offering a sweet, creamy, and coconutty flavor with every bite.
Tips for Making Perfect Beijinho:
-
Consistency is Key: The most important part of making Beijinho is achieving the right consistency of the mixture. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls. If it’s too runny, cook it a little longer; if it’s too firm, add a small splash of water or milk to loosen it up.
-
Flavor Variations: While the classic Beijinho uses vanilla extract, you can experiment by adding other flavors such as coconut extract or even a bit of lime zest for a tangy twist.
-
Make-Ahead Option: Beijinhos can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze them, simply place the truffles on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag for long-term storage.
-
Alternative Coatings: If you’re not a fan of sugar or coconut flakes, consider coating your Beijinho in finely chopped nuts or even chocolate sprinkles for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts:
Beijinho is a simple yet flavorful treat that brings a touch of Brazil to your kitchen. The smooth, creamy texture of the condensed milk pairs beautifully with the sweetness of coconut, making these truffles irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a delicious treat, Beijinho is the perfect sweet to share with friends and family. Enjoy the delightful taste of Brazil with this easy-to-follow recipe!