Ingredients
Beijinho Mixture
- 1 can (14oz/396g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ⅓ cups (100g) unsweetened grated coconut
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (plus more for greasing plate and hands)
For Rolling and Decorating
- Grated coconut for rolling
- Whole cloves for decorating
Instructions
- Cook the Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan or small Dutch Oven, combine the sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, and butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently for 10-20 minutes, until the mixture thickens and leaves a trail when you run a spatula through the center. Alternatively, use a thermometer and cook until mixture reaches 190º-200ºF (88º-95ºC).
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the thickened mixture to a plate generously greased with butter, spreading it into a single layer. Cover with plastic wrap and allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
- Form the Balls: Once cooled, grease your hands with butter and scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture to form smooth balls roughly the size of a cherry. You should get approximately 20 to 25 balls from this mixture.
- Roll in Coconut and Decorate: Place extra grated coconut on a plate. Roll each ball in the coconut flakes to coat evenly. Insert a whole clove into the center of each ball for decoration.
- Serve: Serve the beijinhos as they are or place them in small paper cups for presentation. Remind guests to remove the cloves before eating for safety.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the mixture; it should be thick but still soft enough to shape into balls easily.
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for a short time before rolling.
- The cloves are used as decoration and should be removed before eating to avoid choking hazards.
- You can store beijinhos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a variation, you can sprinkle cocoa powder or use shredded coconut toasted lightly for rolling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Vegetarian
