Sugar-free banana brigadeiro

Ingredients

• 2very ripe bananas
• 2 tbsp (30 ml)cocoa powder
• 5 tbsp (75 ml)skimmed milk powder

Instructions

1. 1

   Soften the bananas

   Put the very ripe bananas in a bowl and microwave them for 2 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the powders

   Add the skimmed milk powder and cocoa powder a little at a time, stopping when the mixture reaches your preferred consistency.

3. 3

   Adjust the firmness

   For a firmer mixture, add a little more skimmed milk powder if you like.

4. 4

   Mix and roll

   Mix the mixture thoroughly, then roll it into balls.

5. 5

   Chill to finish

   Finish with sprinkles or cocoa powder, then refrigerate for 20 minutes.

What is banana brigadeiro?

Brigadeiro is a Brazilian chocolate sweet, traditionally shaped into small balls. This version uses ripe banana as its base, with cocoa and skimmed milk powder to make a quick mixture you can roll and chill.

The banana brings natural sweetness and moisture, while adding the powders gradually lets you choose a softer or firmer result.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 55 calories, 0g protein, 0g carbs, 0g fat.

The banana supplies most of the carbohydrates, while the skimmed milk powder contributes some protein and carbohydrate; cocoa adds flavour with a smaller share of the energy. Pair a portion with plain yoghurt or fresh fruit for a more balanced snack.

Choose ripe bananas

Ripe bananas: Use bananas that are very soft and sweet, as the recipe relies on their flavour rather than added sugar.

Microwave bowl: Mash or stir the softened fruit well after heating so it combines evenly with the dry ingredients.

Get the consistency right

Add gradually: Stir in the cocoa and milk powder in small additions. The mixture should be cohesive enough to shape, rather than runny.

Firm it up: If it feels too sticky to roll, work in a little more skimmed milk powder, as the method suggests.

Shape and chill

Even portions: Divide the mixture into similarly sized pieces before rolling for a more even batch.

Chilling: Refrigerate the shaped sweets for 20 minutes to help them firm up before serving.

Serving ideas

Finish: Use cocoa powder for a less sweet coating, or sprinkles for a more classic sweet-shop look.

Pairing: Serve a few alongside coffee or fruit, or add them to a dessert plate with yoghurt.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a microwave-safe bowl with enough room for the bananas to soften.
• Stir the banana thoroughly after microwaving to break up any large pieces.
• Add the powders in stages so you can stop once the mixture is easy to shape.
• Lightly dampen your hands if the mixture sticks while rolling.
• Chill the sweets for the full 20 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Cocoa finish: Roll the shaped sweets in cocoa powder instead of sprinkles.
• Sprinkle coating: Use sprinkles for a colourful finish, as suggested in the method.
• More cocoa: Add the cocoa gradually and adjust to suit your preferred chocolate flavour.
• Firmer texture: Mix in a little extra skimmed milk powder until the mixture is easier to roll.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using underripe bananas: They may be less sweet and harder to mash; choose very ripe fruit.
• Adding all the powder at once: The texture is harder to control; mix it in gradually.
• Leaving the mixture too soft: It may be difficult to roll; add a little more milk powder.
• Skipping the chill: The sweets may remain very soft; refrigerate them for 20 minutes.
• Overheating the bananas: They can become difficult to handle; stick to the stated 2 minutes.

How to store

Keep the brigadeiros in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eat within 2–3 days. Serve chilled; reheating is not needed.

Frequently asked questions