Brigadeiro Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Brigadeiro
The national truffle of Brazil
Alternative names	Negrinho (in Rio Grande do Sul)
Type	Confectionery
Place of origin	Brazil
Serving temperature	Cold, chilled, warm/hot when consumed with a spoon
Main ingredients	Sweetened condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder

A brigadeiro is a yummy and traditional dessert from Brazil. It was first created by a baker named Heloisa Nabuco de Oliveira in Rio de Janeiro. Brigadeiros are made from a few simple ingredients: condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. They are usually rolled into small balls and covered with chocolate sprinkles.

How Did Brigadeiro Get Its Name?
Where Can You Find Brigadeiro?
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How Did Brigadeiro Get Its Name?

The name "Brigadeiro" has an interesting story linked to a politician. In 1946, a man named Eduardo Gomes was running to become the President of Brazil. He was a "Brigadier," which is a high rank in the army.

Heloísa Nabuco de Oliveira, who supported Eduardo Gomes, created this new sweet. She named it "doce de brigadeiro," which means "the Brigadier's sweet." People loved it, and soon the name was shortened to just "brigadeiro."

During that time, women would sell brigadeiros to help support Eduardo Gomes's campaign. This was a special election because it was the first time women in Brazil could vote! Even with all the support, Eduardo Gomes did not win the election. Another general, Eurico Gaspar Dutra, became president instead.

Where Can You Find Brigadeiro?

Brigadeiros are super popular all over Brazil, especially at parties and celebrations. Many families make them at home. You can also find them in bakeries and snack shops.

Usually, brigadeiros are shaped into little balls. These balls are then rolled in chocolate sprinkles and placed in small paper cups, like mini cupcakes. Sometimes, the mixture is put into a small container and eaten with a spoon. This is called a brigadeiro de colher, which means "spoon brigadeiro."

Thanks to Brazilians moving to other countries, brigadeiros are now enjoyed around the world! In recent years, people have started making brigadeiros with many different flavors and toppings. This has led to new recipes, like brigadeiro cakes, tarts, ice cream, and even bread!