Hi, friends! Banana, cocoa, and milk powder make a soft little treat inspired by Brazilian brigadeiro. My grandmother used ripe banana to sweeten simple desserts, and that is what gives these bites their character. Expect banana flavor, rather than an identical copy of condensed-milk brigadeiro.
- Prep
- 10 minutes
- Cook or chill
- about 20 minutes cooling and chilling
- Yield
- about 14 bites
Ingredients
The original recipe uses a 240 ml cup and 15 ml tablespoon. U.S. cup volumes and oven settings are rounded; use listed grams and milliliters for accuracy. Sweetener conversions come from the specific product’s label.
Bites
- 2 ripe Cavendish bananas, about 180 g peeled (6⅓ oz)
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 5–7 tablespoons milk powder, added gradually
Optional coating
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Milk powder
- Finely crushed unsweetened nuts
How to make it
- Mash the bananas until smooth in a roomy microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then heat another 30–60 seconds until slightly thicker. Keep your hands clear of steam and bubbling puree.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then stir in sifted cocoa.
- Add the milk powder one spoonful at a time until soft but shapeable. It continues to absorb moisture, so avoid making a stiff dry paste.
- Chill for about 15 minutes if too soft. Lightly grease your hands, form small bites, and roll in the chosen coating.
- Keep refrigerated until serving.
Small details that help
Banana size and moisture change how much milk powder is needed; use the peeled weight. If the mixture dries out, a little banana puree or a few drops of water can help. These contain natural fruit and milk sugars even without added table sugar. Nut coatings add a separate allergen.
Serving and storing
Refrigerate covered at 40°F or below and use within 2–3 days. Count from the earliest prepared ingredient, including previously cooked chicken. Refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours, or 1 hour above 90°F. Divide hot food into shallow containers for prompt cooling rather than waiting for it to become fully cold on the counter. Reheat savory leftovers to 165°F. USDA storage and reheating guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Do they taste like regular brigadeiro?
They share a cocoa flavor and rolled shape, but have a distinct banana taste and softer texture.
Why are they sticky?
The banana may be wet or the mixture still warm. Chill briefly before adding more powder.
Are they dairy-free?
No. The milk powder is a dairy ingredient.