06/17/2026
Brigadeiro Cheesecake Recipe
This dessert combines creamy cheesecake with the rich chocolate flavor of Brazilian Brigadeiro.
Serves: 10–12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 55–65 minutes
Chill time: 4–6 hours (preferably overnight)
Ingredients
Crust
250 g (9 oz) chocolate cookies or chocolate graham crackers, crushed
80 g (⅓ cup) unsalted butter, melted
Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling
680 g (24 oz) cream cheese, softened
200 g (1 cup) sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate cheesecake base)
Brigadeiro Topping
1 can (395 g / 14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
30 g (3 tbsp) cocoa powder
30 g (2 tbsp) butter
60 ml (¼ cup) heavy cream (optional, for a softer topping)
Chocolate sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F).
2. Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, and salt.
3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
3. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder (if using).
4. Pour over the cooled crust.
3. Bake
1. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides (water bath).
2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Make the Brigadeiro
1. In a saucepan, combine condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
2. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
3. When thick and glossy (about 8–10 minutes), stir in heavy cream if desired.
4. Cool for 10–15 minutes until spreadable.
5. Finish the Cheesecake
Spread the brigadeiro over the chilled cheesecake.
Decorate with chocolate sprinkles or extra brigadeiros.
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature ingredients to prevent lumps.
Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to reduce cracking.
For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.
For an extra Brazilian touch, serve with fresh berries or small homemade brigadeiros on top. Enjoy! 🍫🍰