Beijinhos do Céu

Introduction

Beijinhos do Céu, often translated as "Little Kisses from Heaven," is a traditional Brazilian dessert. These delightful coconut truffles are a cousin to the well-known Brigadeiro, another favorite in the realm of Brazilian treats. Originating from the Portuguese colonial period, these sweet confections have been a staple at birthdays, celebrations, and festive occasions across Brazil. The simplicity combined with the rich flavor of coconut makes Beijinhos do Céu a crowd-pleaser that has transcended cultural boundaries.

Ingredients

To make Beijinhos do Céu, you will need the following ingredients:

• Sweetened Condensed Milk - 1 can (14 ounces)
• Desiccated Coconut - 1 cup
• Butter - 1 tablespoon
• Granulated Sugar - for coating (optional)
• Whole Cloves - for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Preparation of Beijinhos do Céu begins with gathering and measuring the ingredients to ensure a smooth process. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients, yet delivering maximum taste.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Start by preparing your workstation. Grease a plate or baking sheet lightly with butter and set it aside. This will prevent sticking when you place the cooked mixture to cool.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and desiccated coconut. Add the tablespoon of butter to the mixture.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. This process can take around 10-15 minutes. It is crucial to stir consistently to prevent the mixture from burning and sticking to the pan.
4. The mixture is ready when it thickens sufficiently to show the bottom of the pan during stirring. It will peel off easily from the sides of the pan, forming a cohesive mass.
5. Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the pan from the heat and pour the coconut mixture onto the greased plate or baking sheet to cool.
6. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling phase is essential for achieving the right texture needed to shape the truffles.

Shaping Beijinhos do Céu

After the Coconut Mixture Has Cooled

1. Grease your hands with a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Scoop a portion of the cooled mixture with a teaspoon and roll it between your palms to form a smooth, round ball. Each ball should be around an inch in diameter, but you can adjust the sizes according to preference.
3. For a classic touch, roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat them lightly. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch and sheen to each truffle.
4. Optionally, top each truffle with a single whole clove as a garnish.

Enjoying Beijinhos do Céu

Beijinhos do Céu are best enjoyed at room temperature. They are a perfect treat during festive celebrations like birthdays, weddings, or as a simple dessert. These coconut truffles can be paired with a hot cup of coffee or a light dessert wine to complement their sweet and rich flavor. The addition of cloves provides a hint of spiciness which contrasts the sweetness, making each bite invigorating.