The moment the leaves begin to turn golden and the air holds a crispness of autumn, my kitchen transforms into a haven of warm, inviting scents. One of my favorite fall discoveries? Pumpkin Brigadeiros. These delightful Brazilian sweets offer an irresistible mix of fudgy texture and the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice that just beg to be savored during festive gatherings.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly October afternoon, and it quickly became a go-to treat for everything from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together effortlessly, making them perfect for those moments when you want to impress without the fuss. Imagine sweet bites that melt in your mouth, perfectly embodying the spirit of the season. So, whether you’re celebrating with friends or simply treating yourself, join me in making these Easy Pumpkin Brigadeiros—they’re sure to become a fall favorite!
Why are Pumpkin Brigadeiros a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and chocolate creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Quick and easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time, even on a busy day.
Perfect for gatherings: Their festive appearance and rich flavors make them an ideal treat for parties or cozy nights in.
Versatile options: Personalize your brigadeiros by experimenting with spices or rolling them in crushed graham crackers for a fun twist!
Fall favorite: Celebrating seasonal flavors never felt this delightful—these treats will have everyone asking for seconds!
Pumpkin Brigadeiros Ingredients
• Discover the simple components for these delicious treats!
For the Brigadeiro Mixture
- Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides sweetness and a creamy texture; substitute with full-fat evaporated milk for a lighter option.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds delightful flavor and moisture; ensure it’s well-puréed and drained for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Prevents sticking and adds richness; consider using vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Dredging your brigadeiros adds sweetness and a glossy finish; try crushed graham crackers for a seasonal twist!
For the Decoration
- Mini Chocolate Chips – These serve as the adorable “stems” on your brigadeiros, enhancing the festive presentation.
How to Make Pumpkin Brigadeiros
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Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin puree, and butter. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly blended.
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Cook Mixture: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens—this should take about 15 minutes. You want it thick enough to part easily and reveal the bottom of the pan for 5 seconds.
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Cool Dough: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly, then refrigerate it for approximately 1 hour until it’s fully chilled and firm to the touch.
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Shape Brigadeiros: Lightly butter your hands and scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll them into balls and dredge in sugar to coat.
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Create Texture: Use a toothpick to make indentations resembling a pumpkin’s texture, and place a mini chocolate chip on top for the “stem.”
Optional: Sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Brigadeiros Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and tailor these delicious treats to match your taste and dietary preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter for a completely dairy-free delight that still maintains its fudgy charm.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of sweetened condensed milk for a refined sugar-free version that offers a deeper flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Boost: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice during cooking for an extra burst of autumn flavor—just imagine the cozy aroma!
- Nutty Add-in: Mix in crushed pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the brigadeiros before they set for a rich chocolatey finish that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Savory Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the sweet flavors with a savory contrast—it’s simply divine!
- Cacao Nibs: Instead of rolling in sugar, use cacao nibs for a slightly bitter touch that adds sophistication and health benefits to your treats.
- Flavored Coatings: Instead of granulated sugar, roll your brigadeiros in powdered coconut or crushed graham crackers for a tropical or seasonal twist!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Brigadeiros
Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container and they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week—perfect for keeping on hand for unexpected guests!
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate your Pumpkin Brigadeiros in an airtight container, where they can last up to 2 weeks while retaining their deliciousness.
Freezer: If you want to store them for an extended period, place them in a freezer-safe container, layered with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Let frozen brigadeiros thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying; they’re best served at room temperature for the ultimate taste experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Brigadeiros are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the brigadeiro mixture up to 3 days in advance by following the initial steps of combining the ingredients and cooking them. Once thickened, let the mixture cool slightly before refrigerating it for up to 72 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply scoop out the chilled mixture, roll them into balls, and dredge in sugar. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves time during busy fall festivities but also maintains the brigadeiros’ delightful texture, keeping them just as delicious as the day you made them. Enjoy these sweet treats without the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Brigadeiros?
Imagine a table adorned with warm, inviting treats that perfectly capture the essence of fall celebrations.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai beautifully complement the pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy beverage pairing for your brigadeiros.
- Candied Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these pecans add a delightful contrast to the fudgy texture of the brigadeiros, enhancing your festive spread.
- Apple Crisp: The tartness of baked apples mixed with cinnamon and oats offers a comforting dessert that balances the sweetness of the brigadeiros.
- Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Keep the pumpkin theme alive! A rich coffee with pumpkin spice notes adds warmth and elevates your treat experience during chilly evenings.
- Caramel Drizzle: A gentle drizzle of caramel over your brigadeiros adds an indulgent sweetness that harmonizes with the pumpkin spice and sugar coating.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and smooth flavor of vanilla ice cream provide a refreshing contrast and make each bite of brigadeiro even more decadent.
- Chocolate-Covered Fruit: The bitterness of dark chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pumpkin, adding a fresh element to your dessert table.
Pair these delightful options with your easy Pumpkin Brigadeiros, and you’ll create a spread that embodies the warmth and joy of the season!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Brigadeiros
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Stir Constantly: Keep stirring while cooking to prevent any burning—this is the key to achieving the perfect consistency for your Pumpkin Brigadeiros.
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Right Thickness: Ensure you cook the mixture until it’s thick enough to part easily for 5 seconds when the pan is scraped. This balance is crucial for texture.
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Work Quickly: When shaping the brigadeiros, roll the dough while it’s still warm. If it hardens too much, let it rest at room temperature briefly to soften.
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Experiment with Coatings: Try using crushed graham crackers instead of sugar for a unique twist that complements the pumpkin flavor—get creative!
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy the freshness of these treats on the day they’re made. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, and they’ll still be delightful!
Pumpkin Brigadeiros Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
It’s best to use canned pumpkin puree for consistency and convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just be sure to fully cook, puree, and drain it to remove excess moisture for the best results.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Brigadeiros?
Store your brigadeiros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Brigadeiros, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze them, place brigadeiros in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
What if my brigadeiro mixture is too soft?
If you find that the mixture is too soft to roll into balls, it might not have cooked long enough. Place it back on medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened. Make sure to test the consistency again, aiming for a thick texture that holds shape.
Are Pumpkin Brigadeiros suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! The ingredients in Pumpkin Brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to double-check the sugar or graham cracker coating to ensure they’re also gluten-free if you choose that option.
Can I make them for kids or those with allergies?
There are plenty of options! For a nut-free and dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter, and ensure that any coatings are allergy-friendly. Consider making smaller batches to allow kids to get involved in the fun with festive sprinkles!
Delicious Pumpkin Brigadeiros for Cozy Fall Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin puree, and butter. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly blended.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens—this should take about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly, then refrigerate it for approximately 1 hour until it's fully chilled and firm to the touch.
- Lightly butter your hands and scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll them into balls and dredge in sugar to coat.
- Use a toothpick to make indentations resembling a pumpkin's texture, and place a mini chocolate chip on top for the 'stem.'