Beijinho (Brazilian Coconut Balls)
One of Brazil’s popular party treats, Beijinhos are creamy, coconut-y and easy to make! Little bites of coconut bliss that are sure to transport you to tropical paradise with each delectable nibble.
Ingredients
- 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
- Grated coconut for rolling
- Whole cloves for decorating
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan or small Dutch Oven, combine the sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut and butter. Cook, over medium-low heat, for 10-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens. You will know it's ready when you run a rubber spatula through the middle of the mixture and it leaves a trail, taking a while for it to come back together. If you prefer the use a thermometer, the beijinho is ready at around 190º-200ºF (88º-95ºC).
- Transfer the mixture to a plate that has been generously greased with butter, spreading it into a single layer. Cover with plastic wrap and let it cool completely.
- Once the beijinho mixture has cooled, grease your hands with butter and form smooth balls with about 1 tablespoon of mixture, about the size of a cherry. This recipe will yield about 20 to 25 beijinhos.
- Place some grated (or shredded) coconut in a plate. Roll the balls through the coconut, then insert a clove in the middle.
- Serve the beijinhos as-is or in small paper cups. If your guests are not familiar with them, remind them to remove the cloves before eating!
Notes
Note: These treats are traditionally served in brigadeiro cups. If you can't find them, you can use mini cupcake cups (although they are a bit bigger than a standard beijinho) or just as-is.
Storing: Beijinhos will keep at room temperature, in an airtight container, for up to 3 days before they start to dry out. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for about a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
If you freeze them, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 1beijinho, Calories: 94kcal, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 7mg, Sodium: 22mg, Potassium: 91mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 9g, Vitamin A: 56IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 47mg, Iron: 0.2mg