Pumpkin Brigadeiros

These Pumpkin Brigadeiros are the perfect treat for any fall celebration. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or gathering for Thanksgiving, these delightful Brazilian sweets add a unique twist to the festive season. Their creamy pumpkin flavor combined with a hint of chocolate makes them irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and fun to serve, making them an ideal choice for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Fun Presentation: Shaping the brigadeiros into pumpkins adds a playful element that’s perfect for fall festivities.
• Versatile Treat: Great for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just as a sweet snack any day of the week.
• Gluten-Free Option: These brigadeiros are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Brigadeiros, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of equipment you’ll need to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Plate
• Refrigerator
• Buttered hands (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Small saucepan: Perfect for cooking the brigadeiro mixture evenly without burning it.
• Spatula: Essential for stirring continuously to achieve the right consistency in your brigadeiro.
• Plate: Used for cooling down the mixture before rolling it into balls.
• Refrigerator: Keeps the brigadeiros chilled until ready to serve, ensuring they hold their shape.

Ingredients

For the Brigadeiros

• 1 14 oz can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk (396 grams)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for rolling)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 20 mini chocolate chips

How to Make Pumpkin Brigadeiros

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Place the Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk, pumpkin puree, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir non-stop while the mixture comes to a gentle boil. It’s crucial not to stop stirring; otherwise, it may stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Brigadeiro

Cook the mixture for about 15 minutes until it becomes very thick. To check if it’s ready, run a spatula through the bottom of the pan; if it takes about 5 seconds to come back together, you’re good! The mixture should clump off the spatula.

Step 3: Cool Down

Once cooked, transfer the brigadeiro mixture onto a plate. Allow it to cool down at room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until fully chilled.

Step 4: Roll the Brigadeiros

With buttered hands, scoop out small amounts of brigadeiro and roll them into smooth balls. Use a toothpick to make dents along each ball’s sides to create a pumpkin shape. Finally, place a mini chocolate chip on top as a cute pumpkin stem.

How to Serve Pumpkin Brigadeiros

These delightful Pumpkin Brigadeiros are perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a Halloween party or a Thanksgiving gathering, there are many creative ways to serve them.

At a Halloween Party

• Themed Platter: Arrange the brigadeiros on a spooky platter with cobwebs made from cotton candy.
• Pumpkin Patch Centerpiece: Use mini pumpkins as part of your decoration and place the brigadeiros around them for a festive touch.

For Thanksgiving Desserts

• Dessert Table Display: Include the brigadeiros on your dessert table alongside other fall treats like pies and tarts.
• Gift Jars: Pack brigadeiros in mason jars tied with autumn-themed ribbons to give as sweet gifts to guests.

With Beverages

• Coffee Pairing: Serve with warm spiced coffee or pumpkin spice lattes for the perfect cozy combination.
• Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate station and let guests enjoy brigadeiros as a sweet dip-in treat.

As Party Favors

• Individual Wrapping: Wrap each brigadeiro in colorful cellophane and tie with twine for an adorable take-home gift.
• Custom Tags: Add personalized tags to each favor, making them memorable for your guests.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Brigadeiros

To achieve the best Pumpkin Brigadeiros, follow these handy tips. They will ensure your treats come out perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and high-quality sweetened condensed milk for optimal flavor.
• Stir Constantly: Keep stirring your mixture while cooking to prevent it from sticking, allowing for even cooking.
• Check Thickness Properly: Run a spatula through the mixture; if it takes about 5 seconds to come back together, it’s just right.
• Cool Completely: Let the brigadeiro cool down before rolling; this helps in shaping them easily without sticking.
• Butter Your Hands: Use extra butter on your hands when rolling the brigadeiros to prevent sticking and create smooth balls.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the brigadeiros to chill in the fridge ensures they firm up nicely, enhancing their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Brigadeiros

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Brigadeiros can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Apple Cider Sangria: A refreshing drink that complements the sweetness of pumpkin flavors beautifully.
2. Spiced Nut Mix: Crunchy and savory, this mix adds texture contrast to soft brigadeiros.
3. Pumpkin Soup: Serve a warm bowl of pumpkin soup as an appetizer which ties into the seasonal theme.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses with crackers balances sweetness with savory notes perfectly.
5. Caramelized Pears Salad: This salad features caramelized pears over greens, bringing out fall flavors alongside desserts.
6. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These provide a fruity counterpart that pairs well with chocolate chips on brigadeiros.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Brigadeiros can be fun, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold Ingredients: Forgetting to measure ingredients properly can lead to inconsistent texture. Always use precise measurements for the best outcome.
• Bold Skipping Stirring: Not stirring continuously while cooking can result in a burnt bottom. Keep stirring to achieve a smooth mixture.
• Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Rushing the cooling process means the brigadeiros won’t set properly. Be sure to chill them for at least an hour.
• Bold Using Wet Hands: Rolling the brigadeiros with wet hands makes them sticky and difficult to shape. Use buttered hands for easy rolling.
• Bold Overcooking Mixture: Cooking too long makes the brigadeiro too hard. Watch closely and look for a thick consistency after about 15 minutes.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Brigadeiros in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Brigadeiros

• Freeze brigadeiros in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin Brigadeiros

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Brigadeiros?

Pumpkin Brigadeiros are a Brazilian treat made with sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin puree, and chocolate chips. They have a rich flavor perfect for fall celebrations.

How do you make Pumpkin Brigadeiros gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Brigadeiros?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor, or roll them in crushed nuts instead of sugar.

How long do Pumpkin Brigadeiros last?

They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months when frozen, making them great for holiday treats.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Brigadeiros are not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Enjoy making this delightful treat!

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Pumpkin Brigadeiros

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 brigadeiros 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pumpkin Brigadeiros, a unique twist on the classic Brazilian treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. These creamy pumpkin candies are a wonderful addition to any autumn celebration, from spooky Halloween gatherings to cozy Thanksgiving dinners. With their rich pumpkin flavor complemented by hints of chocolate, these brigadeiros are not only easy to make but also fun to serve. Shaped like mini pumpkins and finished with chocolate chips as stems, they add a playful element that will impress both kids and adults alike. Enjoy making these gluten-free sweets that are sure to be the highlight of your dessert table!

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Ingredients

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• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 20 mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin puree, and butter. Stir continuously until it reaches a gentle boil.
2. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. The mixture should take about 5 seconds to come together when you run a spatula through it.
3. Transfer the mixture onto a plate and let it cool at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate until fully chilled.
4. With buttered hands, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Use a toothpick to create dents for a pumpkin shape and place a mini chocolate chip on top.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brigadeiro (30g)
• Calories: 115
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 5mg