How to Make Brigadeiro (Brazilian Fudge Balls)

Method

• Grab a saucepan and on a low heat melt the butter with the condensed milk and cocoa powder. Stir continuously to avoid the mixture sticking to your pan, and keep on the heat until you end up with a thick fudge-like consistency (15-20 minutes). You should be able to see the bottom of your pan for at least 3 seconds when you drag your wooden spoon through the mix. Make sure not to rush this stage - don't be tempted to turn up the heat or stop it too early otherwise the balls will struggle to hold their shape.
• Pour the mixture out onto a greased plate and once cooled, put the plate into the fridge for an hour to allow the mixture to set. Once set, you're ready to shape the mixture into balls.
• You may want to grease your hands for this next bit to stop the mixture sticking to them. Take a teaspoon and grab a small portion of the mixture and roll it between your hands until you form a small ball. Roll the ball into your topping of choice and set aside. Repeat. If the balls aren't holding their shape, the mixture hasn't cooked for long enough - if this has happened, the mix will still make for a delicious dip for fruit so no need to throw it out!
• These should keep for about 5-7 days in the fridge (if they last that long!).