Beijinho

Beijinho is a traditional Brazilian sweet made from sweetened condensed milk, coconut, and butter, and it's often rolled into little balls and coated in granulated sugar or coconut flakes. It’s a popular treat at parties and celebrations like birthdays and festas juninas. Here's how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (14 oz / 395 g) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut (divided)

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• Granulated sugar or extra shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

• Clove or a small piece of cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the coconut: Set aside about 1/4 cup of the shredded coconut for rolling the beijinhos later. If you’re using sugar, you can also prepare a small bowl of granulated sugar for rolling.

2. Cook the mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. After about 5–7 minutes, add the shredded coconut and vanilla extract (if using), and continue stirring.

3. Cook until thickened: Keep cooking the mixture, stirring constantly, for about 10–15 minutes, or until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when you can see the bottom of the pan while stirring, and the mixture holds its shape.

1. Let it cool: Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10-15 minutes, so it’s easier to handle.

2. Form the beijinhos: Once the mixture has cooled enough to handle, lightly grease your hands with butter and roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut (around 1 inch in diameter).

3. Coat the beijinhos: Roll the balls in either granulated sugar or the remaining shredded coconut until they’re fully coated.

4. Garnish: Place a whole clove or small piece of cinnamon stick on top of each beijinho for a traditional touch.

5. Chill and serve: Let the beijinhos set for about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm them up.

Tips:

• You can also add a bit of coconut milk for extra flavor and creaminess, though traditional recipes stick with just sweetened condensed milk.

• For a fun twist, you can roll them in other coatings like cocoa powder, or even drizzle melted chocolate on top.