Brigadeiro

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
• 2.5 tablespoons (37 grams) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons (30 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) salt
• chocolate sprinkles or pearl sugar for coating
• butter for greasing hands

Instructions

1. Combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
2. Continue cooking and stirring for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and darkens in color, pulling away from the sides of the pan as you stir.
3. The mixture is ready when it reaches a temperature of 230°F (110°C) on a candy thermometer, or when a small spoonful dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that holds its shape briefly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish or plate and allow it to cool to room temperature, about 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Once cooled, lightly butter your hands and roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5-centimeter) balls.
7. Pour chocolate sprinkles into a shallow bowl and roll each brigadeiro ball to coat completely.
8. Place the finished brigadeiros into paper candy cups and refrigerate until serving.