Irresistible Brazilian Brigadeiros Recipe with Pumpkin Spice Twist

Name: Irresistible Brazilian Brigadeiros Recipe with Pumpkin Spice Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 22 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 3 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice; Pinch of salt; Toppings: chocolate sprinkles, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or pumpkin spice sugar

Written by

David

Posted on October 28, 2025

pumpkin spice brigadeiros - featured image

Baked Goods

October 28, 2025

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There’s something magical about the rich, velvety texture of brigadeiros – those beloved Brazilian chocolate truffles. Now, imagine combining this creamy, chocolatey goodness with the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin spice. Every bite feels like a celebration of autumn, and honestly, it’s impossible to eat just one! Whether you’re hosting a fall-inspired party or simply craving a sweet treat to pair with your pumpkin spice latte, these brigadeiros are bound to be your new favorite indulgence.

I first stumbled upon the idea of adding pumpkin spice to brigadeiros during a chilly autumn evening when I craved something sugary with a touch of warmth. I experimented with the recipe, tweaking the ratios until I landed on a version that was just perfect. The combination of cocoa, condensed milk, and pumpkin spice is a match made in dessert heaven. It’s a little twist that elevates the classic Brazilian treat into a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: These Brazilian brigadeiros come together with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. No fancy equipment required!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a fall-themed party, looking for a fun gift idea, or simply craving something sweet, these pumpkin spice brigadeiros will hit the spot.
Customizable: You can roll them in whatever toppings you fancy – sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even pumpkin spice sugar for an extra kick.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love making and eating brigadeiros. It’s a fun and interactive recipe to do together.
Rich and Creamy: The smooth chocolate base paired with the warm spices creates a flavor explosion that feels indulgent yet comforting.
A Unique Twist: Pumpkin spice adds a subtle layer of flavor that makes these brigadeiros perfect for fall. It’s a seasonal upgrade to a classic dessert that will wow your guests.

What makes this recipe special is how seamlessly the pumpkin spice blends into the traditional brigadeiros. It’s not overpowering – it’s just enough to leave you with a cozy feeling that’s perfect for this time of year. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create bold flavors and a satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make irresistible Brazilian brigadeiros with a pumpkin spice twist:

Sweetened Condensed Milk: The star of the show! This gives brigadeiros their signature creamy texture and sweetness.
Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa works beautifully here for a deeper taste.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for a smooth texture. It helps bind the mixture while adding a touch of richness.
Pumpkin Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can use store-bought or make your own at home.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the chocolate and spice flavors without being noticeable.
Toppings: Get creative! Use chocolate sprinkles, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or a mixture of pumpkin spice sugar for rolling.

If you’re looking for substitutions, you could swap cocoa powder for melted chocolate chips for a smoother, fudgier texture. You could also use vegan butter and condensed coconut milk to make this recipe dairy-free. It’s incredibly versatile!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of tools you’ll need to make these delightful brigadeiros:

Medium Saucepan: For cooking the brigadeiro mixture.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the mixture without scratching your saucepan.
Plate or Tray: To cool the mixture after cooking.
Plastic Wrap: To cover the cooling mixture and prevent it from drying out.
Teaspoon or Cookie Scoop: For evenly portioning the brigadeiros.
Bowls for Toppings: Use small bowls to hold your sprinkles, nuts, or coconut for easy rolling.

If you don’t have a wooden spoon, a silicone spatula works just as well. And while a cookie scoop is handy for portioning, a simple teaspoon will do the trick too!

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to make your own irresistible Brazilian brigadeiros with pumpkin spice:

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk, 3 tablespoons (15 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons (28 g) of unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly using a wooden spoon. You’ll want to keep stirring to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom and burning.
Cook the mixture until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can scrape the spoon across the bottom of the pan and it leaves a clear trail.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Transfer it to a plate or tray and spread it out evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and let it cool completely (about 1-2 hours).
Once the mixture has cooled, grease your hands lightly with butter to prevent sticking. Scoop out small portions using a teaspoon or cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon each).
Roll the portions into small balls between your palms. Try to make them as smooth and round as possible for that classic brigadeiro look.
Roll each brigadeiro in your chosen toppings, pressing gently to ensure they stick. Popular options include chocolate sprinkles, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or a blend of pumpkin spice sugar.
Place the finished brigadeiros on a serving plate or in individual mini cupcake liners for a polished presentation.

And that’s it! You now have a batch of delicious Brazilian brigadeiros with a pumpkin spice twist, ready to enjoy.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your brigadeiros turn out perfect every time:

Keep Stirring: The mixture can burn easily, so make sure to stir continuously, especially as it thickens.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can make the mixture too stiff to roll. Remove it from the heat as soon as it starts pulling away from the pan.
Use Quality Cocoa Powder: The better the cocoa, the richer and more decadent your brigadeiros will taste.
Grease Your Hands: A little butter on your palms prevents the sticky mixture from clinging while rolling.
Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with unique textures and flavors to make these treats your own.

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to make this recipe your own:

Vegan Brigadeiros: Swap the condensed milk for condensed coconut milk and use vegan butter.
Holiday Twist: Add a pinch of ground cardamom to the pumpkin spice blend for a festive, aromatic flavor.
Nutty Delight: Mix crushed almonds or hazelnuts into the brigadeiro mixture before cooking for added texture.
Spicy Touch: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cocoa powder for a subtle heat kick.
Tropical Flavor: Replace pumpkin spice with shredded coconut and roll the finished brigadeiros in toasted coconut flakes.

My personal favorite variation is adding a splash of espresso to the mixture for a mocha-inspired brigadeiro. It’s perfect for coffee lovers!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your brigadeiros:

Serving: Serve them chilled or at room temperature. Arrange them in mini cupcake liners for a pretty presentation, or style them on a decorative platter for guests.
Pairings: These brigadeiros pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of red wine for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months – just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm brigadeiros, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes after removing from the fridge.

The flavors of these treats actually deepen over time, making them even more irresistible after a day or two!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values for these brigadeiros:

Calories: Approximately 90-100 per piece
Fat: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 1.5g

The pumpkin spice in this recipe isn’t just for flavor – the spices (like cinnamon and ginger) are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, the cocoa powder contributes to heart health and provides a touch of magnesium. It’s a sweet treat you can feel good about indulging in moderation!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and packed with warm fall flavors, these Brazilian brigadeiros with pumpkin spice are a must-try. They’re simple to make, fun to customize, and perfect for any occasion. I love how they bring a little taste of Brazil into my kitchen while embracing the cozy vibes of autumn.

Give these brigadeiros a try and let your creativity shine with the toppings and flavor twists! I’d love to hear how you make them your own – drop a comment below and share your experience. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later or share it with your friends. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can! Melted chocolate will give the brigadeiros a smoother, fudgier texture. Use dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.

What’s the best way to make homemade pumpkin spice?

You can easily mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts. Adjust the ratios to match your taste!

Can I freeze brigadeiros?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

How do I prevent the mixture from burning?

Stir constantly and keep the heat at medium. Don’t rush the cooking process – patience is key!

What toppings work best for brigadeiros?

Chocolate sprinkles are traditional, but you can also use crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even pumpkin spice sugar for a seasonal twist.

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