Brigadeiro

Instructions

1. Prepare the mixture
   In a medium non-stick saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and salt. Mix well until ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Cook the mixture
   Heat the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula. Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the bottom of the pan when you drag your spoon across it.
3. Cool the mixture
   Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or shallow dish and let it cool completely to room temperature, about 30-40 minutes. For faster cooling, you can refrigerate it for about 20 minutes.
4. Shape the brigadeiros
   Once cooled, butter your hands lightly to prevent sticking. Take small portions (about 1 tablespoon) of the mixture and roll between your palms to form balls about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Coat with sprinkles
   Place chocolate sprinkles in a shallow dish. Roll each brigadeiro ball in the sprinkles until completely coated. Press gently to make the sprinkles adhere to the surface.
6. Serve and store
   Place each finished brigadeiro in a small paper candy cup. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.