Brigadeiro Cake Recipe

Chocolate lovers, get ready for your new obsession. Brigadeiro Cake isn’t just a dessert, it’s a rich, indulgent journey through layers of moist chocolate cake and luscious Brazilian brigadeiro. If you’re looking for something that combines fudgy, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate textures all in one cake, this is it. This guide will take you step-by-step through making this showstopping cake from scratch, including the secrets to perfect brigadeiro filling and that silky frosting that makes every bite unforgettable.

You’ll learn how to bake the softest chocolate cake base, prepare a decadent cocoa soak that enhances every layer, and whip up a traditional brigadeiro from sweet condensed milk and real chocolate. Whether you’re preparing it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this ultimate recipe transforms your kitchen into a Brazilian bakery.

Introduction to Brigadeiro Cake

What is a Brigadeiro Cake?

Brigadeiro Cake is a decadent Brazilian dessert that combines two national favorites: chocolate cake and brigadeiro. The brigadeiro itself is a fudge-like candy made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa, butter, and traditionally shaped into balls and covered with sprinkles. But when used in cake form, it becomes a creamy, dreamy filling and frosting that turns a simple chocolate cake into a celebration.

The Brigadeiro Cake usually features multiple moist chocolate layers brushed with a chocolate soak and filled with soft, cooked brigadeiro. Once assembled, it’s coated with thick brigadeiro frosting and covered in chocolate sprinkles. And yes, it’s often crowned with classic brigadeiro balls on top.

Why Brigadeiro Cake is Brazil’s Most Beloved Dessert

Brigadeiro Cake holds a special place in Brazilian culture. It’s the centerpiece of countless celebrations, from birthdays to weddings. Its nostalgic flavor reminds many of childhood treats, yet its richness appeals to all ages.

Part of its charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility. With pantry staples like cocoa powder, condensed milk, and butter, you can make a cake that feels extravagant without complicated techniques. The combination of creamy brigadeiro and moist cake delivers a layered taste experience that’s hard to beat.

And while Brazil may have given us the first bite, this Brigadeiro Cake is now gaining popularity across the U.S. thanks to its bold flavors and wow-factor presentation.

Ingredients Breakdown for the Perfect Brigadeiro Cake

Essential Ingredients for a Moist Chocolate Cake Base

To achieve the rich, moist texture that defines an authentic Brigadeiro Cake, the cake base must go beyond standard chocolate sponge. The right balance of wet and dry ingredients creates that tender crumb you want in every bite.

Here’s what you need and why it matters:

The combination of brown sugar and oil ensures that the Brigadeiro Cake Recipe remains soft for days. If you’re aiming for bakery-style perfection, sift the dry ingredients for a uniform, lump-free batter.

The Role of Brigadeiro Filling and Frosting in Texture and Flavor

The magic of a Brigadeiro Cake lies in its filling and frosting. These components are made from nearly identical ingredients, but a slight variation in technique and texture gives each one a unique role.

Brigadeiro Filling Ingredients:

• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (28 oz total)
• 280g bittersweet chocolate (roughly chopped)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 can Media Crema (225ml), serum removed

Brigadeiro Frosting Ingredients:

• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (28 oz total)
• 300g bittersweet chocolate
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Let’s break down why each matters:

The addition of Media Crema in the filling keeps it soft and creamy between the layers, while omitting it in the frosting creates a firm, spreadable finish.

Brigadeiro Cake Recipe

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Rich and indulgent Brazilian Brigadeiro Cake made with moist chocolate layers, creamy brigadeiro filling, and a glossy chocolate frosting.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

8 eggs

300ml whole milk

255ml vegetable oil

2 1/4 cups brown sugar

2 tsp vanilla paste (or 4 tsp vanilla extract)

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

A pinch of salt

Chocolate Soak:

3 tbsp cocoa powder

2 tbsp sugar

1/4 cup whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cognac

Brigadeiro Filling:

2 cans (28 oz total) sweetened condensed milk

280g bittersweet chocolate, chopped

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 can Media Crema (225ml), serum removed

Brigadeiro Frosting:

2 cans (28 oz total) sweetened condensed milk

300g bittersweet chocolate, chopped

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Chocolate sprinkles (for decoration)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter two 8-inch pans, line with parchment, butter again, and flour them.

2. In a bowl, mix eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Add brown sugar and mix again.

3. Sift dry ingredients and mix with wet ingredients until smooth.

4. Divide the batter into pans and bake for 50 minutes. Cool completely.

5. For the soak, combine cocoa, sugar, milk, and cream. Simmer, then cool and add vanilla and cognac.

6. To make the filling, cook condensed milk, chocolate, and butter over medium-low heat, stirring until thickened.

7. Remove from heat, stir in Media Crema, and cool.

8. Repeat the same steps for the frosting, omitting the Media Crema.

9. Level cakes, slice each into two for 4 layers. Soak each layer and spread 1/3 of the brigadeiro filling between them.

10. Chill cake for 30 minutes. Frost top and sides with brigadeiro frosting.

11. Cover the cake with sprinkles. Roll extra frosting into balls, coat in sprinkles, and use to decorate.

12. Refrigerate overnight or serve at room temperature.

Notes

To remove serum from Media Crema, chill the can for 20 minutes, puncture the bottom, and drain.

You can prepare cake layers and brigadeiro filling a day in advance.

Use espresso instead of cognac in the soak for a deeper chocolate flavor.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 42g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

How to Make the Perfect Chocolate Cake Base

Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing the Batter

Creating a moist, fluffy chocolate cake begins with the mixing method. While the ingredients are simple, how you combine them makes all the difference. Follow these steps for success:

1. Prep your pans first
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter two 8-inch cake pans thoroughly, then line the bottoms with parchment paper. Brush another layer of butter on the paper, dust with flour, and tap out the excess. This ensures the Brigadeiro Cake release easily after baking.

2. Combine the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 8 large eggs
• 300ml (1⅓ cups) whole milk
• 255ml (1 cup) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or 4 teaspoons vanilla extract

Once combined, add the 2¼ cups brown sugar and mix again until smooth and creamy. A hand mixer works great here.

3. Sift and blend dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift together:

• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• A pinch of salt

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at low speed. Don’t overbeat—mix just until no lumps remain. The batter will be rich and thick.

Baking Techniques for a Soft and Fluffy Texture

The way you bake can make or break your Brigadeiro Cake’s texture. Here’s how to ensure each layer turns out soft, springy, and evenly baked.

1. Divide and level
Pour the batter equally into the two prepared pans. Use a kitchen scale to measure if needed—this guarantees even layers.

2. Bake to perfection
Place the pans in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door before 40 minutes to prevent sinking.

3. Cool completely
Once baked, allow the Brigadeiro Cake to cool in their pans for 10–15 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks and let them reach room temperature before slicing or layering. Warm cakes can cause the brigadeiro filling to melt prematurely.

Pro Tip: Want even more moisture? Add a parchment collar to your pans to promote even baking and prevent domed tops.

Crafting the Rich Chocolate Soak

Why Chocolate Soak Enhances Moisture and Flavor

What sets Brigadeiro Cake apart from ordinary chocolate cakes is the added layer of moisture. This comes from a homemade chocolate soak, brushed generously onto each cake layer before the brigadeiro filling is added. The result? An ultra-moist cake that melts in your mouth.

The soak not only keeps the Brigadeiro Cake from drying out, especially when made in advance, but also deepens the cocoa flavor without overwhelming the brigadeiro’s creamy sweetness. This layer of moisture transforms the entire eating experience from good to gourmet.

How to Make the Best Soaking Syrup at Home

The chocolate soak is quick to make and uses simple ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s the exact method:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cognac (optional but recommended)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, milk, and heavy cream. Place over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. You don’t want it to boil hard—just bring it to a gentle simmer to let the ingredients blend smoothly.

Step 2: Cool and infuse flavor
Once it starts to bubble, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before adding the vanilla and cognac. This keeps the aromatics fresh and prevents evaporation of flavor.

Step 3: Apply with a brush
When your Brigadeiro Cake Recipe are fully cooled and sliced, use a pastry brush to dab the soak onto each layer evenly. Make sure you don’t oversaturate—just enough to darken the surface and add that rich, chocolatey note.

Pro tip: You can substitute the cognac with a splash of espresso for a deeper chocolate vibe.

Creating the Iconic Brigadeiro Filling

Traditional Brigadeiro Techniques with a Twist

The brigadeiro filling in this Brigadeiro Cake isn’t your standard candy truffle. It’s cooked slightly softer, spreadable, and infused with bittersweet chocolate for a more elegant, less sugary profile. This layer should be rich, creamy, and thick enough to hold between layers without running.

The traditional brigadeiro mixture includes:

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Unsalted butter
• Cocoa powder or chopped chocolate

But for Brigadeiro Cake, we take it a step further by using bittersweet chocolate instead of cocoa powder and folding in Media Crema, which makes the filling smoother and less sticky.

Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (28 oz total) sweetened condensed milk
• 280g bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 can Media Crema (225ml), serum removed (see below)

Incorporating Media Crema for Ultimate Creaminess

Step 1: Combine core ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped bittersweet chocolate, and butter. Place over medium-low heat, and stir constantly. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook until thickened
The mixture will gradually darken and thicken. This should take 8–10 minutes, depending on your stove. To test readiness, run the spatula across the bottom of the pan. If you see the metal for a second before the mixture folds back, your brigadeiro is done.

Step 3: Add Media Crema
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the Media Crema, making sure it’s smooth and fully incorporated. This step lightens the filling just enough to spread easily while keeping the iconic brigadeiro texture.

Step 4: Cool properly
Transfer the filling to a buttered plate and cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent skin). Let it cool to room temperature before using. It should be soft, glossy, and spreadable.

Pro Tip: Media Crema is found in most Latin markets or the international aisle of major grocery stores. To remove the serum, chill the unopened can for 20 minutes, then pierce the bottom to drain the liquid. This keeps the final texture silky and uniform.

Making the Brigadeiro Frosting Like a Pro

Consistency Secrets for a Glossy, Thick Frosting

The frosting for Brigadeiro Cake uses nearly the same ingredients as the filling, but without Media Crema. This change results in a firmer, glossier texture that spreads beautifully across the surface of the Brigadeiro Cake and holds its shape for clean edges.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (28 oz total) sweetened condensed milk
• 300g bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Chocolate sprinkles (for decoration)

Here’s how to make it perfectly every time:

Step 1: Cook the base mixture
Place the sweetened condensed milk, chopped chocolate, and butter into a saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula to avoid burning. The texture should become thick, shiny, and pull slightly from the sides of the pan.

This process takes 10–12 minutes. Be patient—rushing the heat can cause the mixture to separate or develop clumps.

Step 2: Test the consistency
To check if it’s ready, drag the spatula along the bottom of the pan. If you see the metal for a moment before the frosting flows back into place, it’s good to go.

Step 3: Cool before using
Let the frosting cool to room temperature before spreading. At this point, it should be thick but pliable enough to coat the Brigadeiro Cake Recipe without tearing into the layers. You can even refrigerate it briefly to firm it up more for clean piping or shaping.

Pro Tip: For an ultra-smooth finish, spread the frosting using an offset spatula warmed in hot water. Work in long, sweeping strokes.

Decorating Tips with Brigadeiro Balls and Sprinkles

Now comes the fun part—decorating. This step gives your Brigadeiro Cake Recipe its signature Brigadeiro identity.

1. Apply the frosting
Once your Brigadeiro Cake is chilled and the layers are firm, frost the top and sides evenly using your cooled brigadeiro frosting. Work slowly to avoid picking up crumbs.

2. Cover with chocolate sprinkles
Press chocolate sprinkles into the frosting immediately after application. Sprinkle them generously over the top and gently press them onto the sides using clean hands or a piece of parchment.

3. Make brigadeiro balls for garnish
With the leftover frosting, chill it for 15–20 minutes. Then grease your hands lightly with butter and roll small balls. Coat each in chocolate sprinkles and arrange them around the top edge of the cake.

This simple decoration adds traditional flair and texture contrast to the smooth finish.

Storage, Serving, and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store Brigadeiro Cake for Maximum Freshness

Brigadeiro Cake holds up beautifully over time, thanks to its naturally moist chocolate layers and the protective brigadeiro coating. Whether you’re prepping it in advance or saving leftovers, proper storage keeps the flavor and texture intact.

Short-Term Storage (1–2 days):

• Cover the Brigadeiro Cake Recipe loosely with plastic wrap or store it in a cake container.
• Refrigerate to keep the brigadeiro filling and frosting stable.
• Let it sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving so the frosting softens slightly.

Longer Storage (up to 5 days):

• Wrap the Brigadeiro Cake in plastic, then foil, to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
• Store in the back of the fridge where temperatures are most consistent.
• If needed, refresh the frosting with a thin layer of leftover brigadeiro to restore shine before serving.

Tip: Avoid storing brigadeiro cake uncovered in the fridge—condensation will affect the texture of the chocolate sprinkles and frosting.

Best Ways to Slice and Serve Without Mess

Brigadeiro Cake is thick, rich, and layered with fudge-like filling, so serving clean slices takes a little finesse.

How to slice cleanly:

• Use a long, thin-bladed knife.
• Run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each slice.
• Cut with a gentle sawing motion instead of pressing straight down.

Serving suggestions:

• For a clean look, place each slice on dessert plates with a small scoop of whipped cream or sliced strawberries.
• If serving buffet-style, pre-slice and use cupcake liners as holders for easier grabbing.

Portioning Tip: Because of its richness, small slices go a long way. This cake comfortably serves 12 to 16 guests.

Make-Ahead Strategies That Work

Brigadeiro Cake is perfect for planning ahead. Each component can be made in advance without compromising quality.

What to make ahead:

• Cake layers: Bake, cool, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Store at room temp up to 24 hours or freeze up to 1 month.
• Chocolate soak: Can be made and refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Brigadeiro filling and frosting: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temp or warm gently before using.

Assemble the day before serving for best results. This gives the layers time to settle and allows the flavors to meld.

Pro Tip: Make brigadeiro balls in advance and store them in an airtight container with parchment layers to prevent sticking.

Layering and Filling Like a Bakery Expert

Assembly is where your prep pays off. With four moist cake layers, chocolate soak, creamy brigadeiro filling, and rich frosting, the key is balance. Here’s how to do it right:

Step 1: Level your cakes
Using a serrated knife or cake leveler, slice off any domed tops from your cooled cakes. Then, slice each cake in half horizontally, creating four even layers. Be sure to turn the cakes as you slice for an even cut.

Step 2: Set the base
Place one layer, cut-side up, on a flat cake stand or serving platter. Use strips of wax paper under the edges if you want to keep the platter clean during frosting.

Step 3: Brush on the chocolate soak
Use a pastry brush to dab the chocolate soak generously over the surface of the cake layer. Don’t flood it—just enough to darken the top and infuse flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Spread the brigadeiro filling
Add 1/3 of the brigadeiro filling over the soaked cake layer. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. It should be thick enough to stay in place, but not so firm that it pulls up crumbs.

Step 5: Repeat and stack
Place the second cake layer over the filling, press down lightly to level it, and repeat the soak and filling steps for layers two and three.

Step 6: Cap it off
Finish with the final layer, cut-side down. Brush with a light layer of soak again, even if it’s the top. This keeps the top layer just as moist as the others.

Freezing, Frosting, and Final Presentation Tips

Now that the cake is assembled, it’s time to set it and finish it off like a pro.

Step 1: Chill before frosting
Place the assembled cake in the freezer for 30 minutes. This firms up the layers and the filling, making it easier to apply the brigadeiro frosting cleanly and evenly without dragging crumbs.

Step 2: Apply the brigadeiro frosting
Spread a generous layer of frosting on the top of the cake, then work it down the sides. Use long, smooth strokes with a warm spatula to create an even, polished finish.

Step 3: Decorate with sprinkles and balls
While the frosting is still slightly tacky, press chocolate sprinkles into the sides and top. Roll your prepped brigadeiro balls and place them around the top edge in a circle, or get creative with patterns.

Step 4: Serve or refrigerate
The cake is now ready to serve, but it tastes even better after a night in the fridge. Chilling it helps all the layers meld together, intensifying the flavors.

Creative Variations of the Brigadeiro Cake

Mini Brigadeiro Cakes and Cupcake Versions

Love the taste of Brigadeiro Cake but want something easier to serve at parties or events? Mini cakes and cupcakes offer the same indulgence in bite-sized form. Plus, they’re easier to portion and decorate individually.

Mini Cakes:

• Use 4- or 5-inch round pans or metal ring molds.
• Stack two thin layers with a layer of brigadeiro filling in between.
• Coat with brigadeiro frosting and roll the sides in sprinkles. Top with a single brigadeiro ball for a polished look.

Cupcake Style Brigadeiro Cakes:

• Bake standard chocolate cupcakes using the same batter recipe.
• Hollow out the center slightly and fill with brigadeiro filling.
• Pipe brigadeiro frosting over the top and decorate with sprinkles or mini brigadeiro balls.

These make excellent options for birthdays, weddings, or even baby showers. They’re portable, neat, and still deliver the full brigadeiro experience.

Flavor Additions: Coconut, Caramel, and More

While traditional Brigadeiro Cake is rich with bittersweet chocolate, there’s room to play with complementary flavors without losing authenticity.

Here are some delicious flavor enhancements:

These variations don’t take away from the Brazilian roots—they simply add layers of flavor complexity that modern palates love.

Conclusion: Make Brigadeiro Cake Your Next Show-Stopping Dessert

Whether you’re preparing a birthday surprise, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving something intensely chocolatey, Brigadeiro Cake delivers on all fronts. Its layers of ultra-moist chocolate cake, velvety brigadeiro filling, and glossy, sprinkle-covered frosting make it a dessert that satisfies both comfort and elegance.

By mastering the techniques laid out in this guide—from preparing the rich brigadeiro and soaking each layer, to assembling and decorating with finesse—you can confidently recreate this iconic Brazilian treat in your own kitchen.

The best part? It’s a recipe that’s flexible. Whether you stick with the classic or try coconut, caramel, or espresso variations, you’re guaranteed a decadent experience. Make it ahead, serve it fresh, or store leftovers with ease—this cake was built to impress.

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