Pumpkin Brigadeiros

These Pumpkin Brigadeiros are a delightful twist on the classic Brazilian treat, perfect for celebrating the fall season. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or looking for a sweet addition to your Thanksgiving table, these brigadeiros are sure to impress. With their creamy pumpkin flavor and charming mini chocolate stems, they not only taste amazing but also look festive. Easy to prepare, this treat is a fun way to bring seasonal flavors into your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
• Fun Presentation: Shaping the brigadeiros into pumpkins adds a playful touch that’s perfect for any festive gathering.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just because—you can enjoy these brigadeiros anytime!
• Kid-Friendly: These treats are not only fun to eat but also fun to make with kids, making them a great activity for family bonding.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Pumpkin Brigadeiros, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Plate
• Butter (for rolling)
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Small saucepan: A good quality saucepan ensures even heating, which is crucial for cooking the brigadeiro mixture without burning.
• Spatula: A flexible spatula allows you to stir continuously while preventing the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Pumpkin Brigadeiros, gather the following 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 important to keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Brigadeiro

Cook the mixture for about 15 minutes until it becomes very thick. To test its consistency, run a spatula through the bottom of the pan; if it takes about 5 seconds for the mixture to come back together, it’s ready. It should fall off the spatula in chunks.

Step 3: Cool Down

Remove the brigadeiro mixture from heat and transfer it onto a plate. Allow it to cool down at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely 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 create dents around each ball to form a pumpkin shape. Top each one with a mini chocolate chip as a cute pumpkin stem.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Brigadeiros!

How to Serve Pumpkin Brigadeiros

These delightful Pumpkin Brigadeiros are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Their vibrant color and unique flavor make them a hit at parties and gatherings.

Halloween Party Treats

• Serve on a themed platter: Arrange the brigadeiros on a spooky-themed plate for a festive touch.
• Add decorative toothpicks: Use fun toothpicks with Halloween motifs to make them easy to grab and enjoy.

Thanksgiving Dessert Table

• Include in dessert buffet: Place the brigadeiros among other desserts for a colorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
• Garnish with cinnamon dust: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon on top of the brigadeiros for a warm, festive flavor.

Kid-Friendly Snacks

• Pack in lunchboxes: These treats are great for kids’ lunchboxes, adding a sweet surprise.
• Offer as party favors: Wrap individual brigadeiros in clear bags tied with ribbons for a cute take-home gift.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Brigadeiros

Making perfect Pumpkin Brigadeiros is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions for delicious results every time.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for premium sweetened condensed milk and fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
• Stir continuously: Keep stirring while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure an even consistency.
• Cool completely before rolling: Allow the mixture to chill thoroughly; this makes it easier to form smooth balls.
• Butter your hands: This prevents the mixture from sticking while you roll it into shape.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Brigadeiros

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Brigadeiros can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement their sweetness.

1. Spiced Apple Cider – A warm beverage that offers a cozy contrast to the sweet brigadeiros.
2. Maple Pecan Pie – The rich flavors of pecans and maple syrup pair wonderfully with pumpkin treats.
3. Caramel Drizzled Brownies – Indulge in fudgy brownies topped with caramel sauce alongside your brigadeiros.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – These soft, sugary donuts provide a delightful texture contrast.
5. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – A savory soup adds depth and balances out the sweetness of the brigadeiros.
6. Gingerbread Cookies – The spiciness of gingerbread complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Brigadeiros can be a fun and easy task, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Mixing: Not stirring continuously can lead to burning. Always stir non-stop while cooking to prevent the mixture from sticking.
• Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the brigadeiro can make it too hard. Cook just until it’s thick enough to hold its shape when cooled.
• Bold Cooling Duration: Skipping the cooling step results in difficult rolling. Allow the brigadeiro to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before shaping.
• Bold Rolling Technique: Using dry hands can make rolling difficult. Use buttered hands to easily form smooth balls.
• Bold Garnishing Approach: Forgetting the chocolate chip stem makes them look less like pumpkins. Don’t skip placing a mini chocolate on top for decoration.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Pumpkin Brigadeiros

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Pumpkin Brigadeiros

• Bold Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, turning frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Brigadeiros.

How do I know when Pumpkin Brigadeiros are cooked?

The mixture should be thick enough that it takes about 5 seconds to come back together when you run a spatula through it.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Brigadeiros?

Absolutely! You can add different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor or roll them in nuts instead of sugar.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 20 delicious Pumpkin Brigadeiros, perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin puree works well; just ensure it’s not too watery for the right consistency.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Brigadeiros are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. They’re perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving celebrations. Plus, feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Dive into this fun recipe and create your own festive twist!