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Pistachio Condensed Milk Balls

Featured in: Sweet Endings and Treats

Creamy Pistachio Milk Treats are a quick, indulgent dessert needing just a handful of ingredients and zero baking. Start by warming up condensed milk, butter, and salt until the butter melts, then stir in pistachio cream until it thickens like fudge. Let the mixture chill for 1-2 hours before rolling it into bite-sized pieces and coating them with finely chopped pistachios. These sweet and nutty bites combine a creamy center with a crispy exterior, bursting with pistachio flavor. They’re ideal for parties or enjoying as an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee or tea. This recipe easily doubles and yields around 10-14 pieces per batch.
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Updated on Fri, 07 Mar 2025 02:08:30 GMT
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A plate of green balls with seeds on it. | tasteofcook.com

Discover Brazil's beloved chocolate treat reimagined with a luxurious pistachio twist. These melt-in-your-mouth brigadeiros combine sweet condensed milk with rich pistachio cream and butter for an irresistibly fudgy texture. Each bite-sized confection features a smooth, chewy center wrapped in crunchy chopped pistachios - creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

While traditional chocolate brigadeiros are a Brazilian classic, this pistachio variation adds an elevated touch that makes them even more special. The natural sweetness of pistachios pairs beautifully with the rich condensed milk base.

Essential Ingredients

  • Condensed Milk (14 oz can): Creates the signature fudgy base and provides essential sweetness. Full-fat varieties yield the best texture and richness.
  • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds silky smoothness and helps achieve the perfect consistency. European-style butter works particularly well.
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the pistachio flavor while balancing sweetness. Use fine sea salt for best results.
  • Pistachio Cream (3 tablespoons): Provides intense nutty flavor. Source pure pistachio cream without added ingredients.
  • Chopped Pistachios (1 cup): Creates an attractive coating and adds delightful crunch. Use unsalted pistachios, finely chopped.

Preparation Method

Initial Setup:
Measure all ingredients and prepare workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for finished candies. Keep ingredients close as mixture requires constant attention.
Make Base Mixture:
Combine condensed milk, butter and salt in heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with wooden spoon, scraping sides and bottom.
Incorporate Butter:
Continue stirring until butter fully melts and blends with condensed milk, about 3-4 minutes. Mixture will briefly thin before thickening.
Add Pistachio:
Blend in pistachio cream, stirring vigorously until fully incorporated. Mixture will take on a light green hue.
Cook to Proper Consistency:
Maintain medium-low heat, stirring constantly for 8-10 minutes until mixture thickens significantly. It should pull away from pan sides when stirred.
Check Doneness:
Test by placing small amount on cold plate - should be firm enough to touch without sticking after cooling briefly.
Cool Mixture:
Transfer to buttered dish, cover surface directly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate minimum 2 hours or overnight.
Form Candies:
With buttered hands, roll tablespoon portions into smooth balls.
Finish:
Roll each ball in chopped pistachios, pressing gently to coat. Place in paper candy cups if desired.
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A plate with four chocolate cupcakes with green toppings. | tasteofcook.com

Cultural Background

Created in 1940s Brazil and named for Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, brigadeiros began as chocolate confections. This pistachio adaptation demonstrates how the beloved treat has evolved while maintaining its essential character - proving that even classic recipes can be reimagined with elegant new flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pistachio brigadeiros make an elegant addition to dinner parties and special occasions. Their sophisticated flavor profile and beautiful appearance draw attention on dessert tables. Serve them slightly chilled alongside coffee or tea for the perfect after-dinner treat.

Storage Tips

Store brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Remove 15 minutes before serving to reach ideal temperature. Flavors continue developing for 24 hours after preparation, making these excellent make-ahead desserts.

A plate of green balls is on a table. Pin it
A plate of green balls is on a table. | tasteofcook.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's pistachio cream, and where can I get it?
Pistachio cream is a spread made from finely blended pistachios, similar to a nut butter. Check online, gourmet grocery stores, or make it at home by pureeing roasted pistachios with a bit of oil.
→ Are there substitutions for the pistachio cream?
You can swap it out for pistachio butter or other nut butters like almond or hazelnut. Keep in mind, though, that the flavor will shift with different ingredients.
→ How long do these treats stay fresh?
Store them in the fridge within a sealed container for up to two weeks, or freeze them for three months if you'd like to store some longer.
→ Can I mix in other flavors or ingredients?
Sure! Try adding vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor or even some rose water. White chocolate chips or dried fruits also make fun mix-ins.
→ What if the mixture is too sticky to form balls?
It might need a longer chilling time. If it’s still too soft after cooling, add some finely ground pistachios or a little powdered sugar to firm it up.

Pistachio Condensed Milk Balls

These Creamy Pistachio Milk Treats mix rich pistachio cream with condensed milk, coated in chopped nuts, creating an irresistible no-bake snack.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired

Yield: 1 Servings (10-14 fudge balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Fudge Base

01 1 can of condensed milk (397g)
02 20g of plain butter
03 A pinch (1/4 teaspoon) of salt
04 100g of pistachio spread

→ Coating

05 100g diced pistachios, chopped finely

Instructions

Step 01

Pour the condensed milk, butter, and salt into a medium pan. Warm them on medium heat while stirring constantly until the butter disappears into the mixture.

Step 02

Stir in the pistachio spread with the melted mixture, blending it completely while it's still warm.

Step 03

Keep the mixture on medium heat. Stir it the entire time to stop it from burning. Cook until it thickens a lot and starts looking like fudge.

Step 04

Put your still-warm fudge mixture into a bowl. Pop it in the fridge and let it sit for 1-2 hours until it's firm and you can handle it easily.

Step 05

Take out the chilled mixture and grab about a tablespoon at a time. Roll the mixture in your palms to shape balls. Grease your hands a bit with some neutral oil if it sticks. Then roll each ball around in the chopped pistachios to coat them all over.

Notes

  1. Double the recipe if you want to make a larger batch.
  2. Store the fudge in your fridge—it'll last for up to seven days.
  3. Can’t track down pistachio spread? Blend roasted pistachios until they’re smooth to make some of your own.

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium-sized pan
  • A sturdy wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • A bowl for cooling in the fridge
  • 1-tablespoon measuring spoon

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy is included (from both condensed milk and butter)
  • Nuts are included (specifically pistachios)