INTRODUCTION
This chocolate cake with brigadeiro is one of Brazil’s most beloved desserts. Soft, moist, and deeply chocolaty, it is filled and covered with a luscious brigadeiro cream that melts in your mouth. This cake is perfect for celebrations, birthdays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting and rich treat. The combination of fluffy chocolate sponge and silky brigadeiro gives this dessert a creamy, luxurious finish that everyone falls in love with.
HISTORY
Chocolate cake has been popular around the world for more than a century, but brigadeiro is uniquely Brazilian. It was created in the 1940s and named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, a popular political figure. The candy became so famous that Brazilians started adapting it into cakes, frostings, pies, and fillings. The brigadeiro cake is now a symbol of celebration in Brazil, often served at birthdays, festivals, and weddings.
BENEFITS
Chocolate contains antioxidants that may support mood, reduce stress, and boost energy. Brigadeiro filling provides a creamy texture that satisfies cravings without needing complicated techniques. This cake is also easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chocolate Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot water or hot coffee (coffee enhances the chocolate flavor)
For the Brigadeiro Filling and Frosting
2 cans sweetened condensed milk
4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration (optional)
Chocolate sprinkles
Chocolate shavings
Fresh berries
Chopped nuts
METHOD AND INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. - Make the cake batter
In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture.
Pour in the hot water or hot coffee. The batter will be thin; this is normal. - Bake
Divide the batter between the two pans.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool completely before assembling. - Make the brigadeiro
In a saucepan, combine condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and glossy.
Add heavy cream if using and cook until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Let it cool until spreadable. - Assemble the cake
Place one cake layer on a plate.
Spread a thick layer of brigadeiro on top.
Add the second cake layer.
Cover the entire cake with brigadeiro frosting.
Decorate with sprinkles, shaved chocolate, or anything you like.
FORMATION
You can shape this cake in many ways depending on your event.
Classic Round Cake: Two or three layers filled with brigadeiro.
Sheet Cake: Bake in a rectangular pan and spread brigadeiro on top.
Mini Cakes: Cut circles and layer individually for parties.
Truffle Cake Style: Add extra brigadeiro inside and chill before serving.
NUTRITION (approximate per slice)
Calories: 420
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Protein: 6 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 45 g
These values vary depending on portion size and decoration.
LOVERS
Chocolate lovers adore this cake because it has deep cocoa flavor, soft texture, and rich creaminess. Brigadeiro fans love its smooth, silky filling that balances sweetness with chocolate. Dessert lovers appreciate how comforting and nostalgic it feels.
CONCLUSION
The Best Chocolate Cake with Brigadeiro is more than just a dessert. It is a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. From its Brazilian roots to its modern popularity worldwide, this cake brings joy to anyone who tastes it. Whether baked for a birthday, a holiday, or simply to enjoy with friends, it promises satisfaction in every bite.
