Morango do Amor: Classic Brazilian Strawberry Treat

Morango do Amor is a traditional Brazilian treat that combines the freshness of strawberries, the creamy sweetness of brigadeiro de leite ninho (a milk powder fudge), and a crunchy red sugar shell. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a sweet indulgence, these strawberries in a candy shell are as fun to make as they are delicious to eat. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create this show-stopping dessert at home.

Ingredients

For the Brigadeiro de Leite Ninho:

• 1 can (395g) sweetened condensed milk
• 3 tablespoons (30g) powdered milk
• ½ box (100g) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon (15g) butter

For the Sugar Coating:

• 2 ½ cups (270g) granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) white vinegar
• Red food coloring drops

For the Strawberries:

• 14 fresh strawberries
• 14 barbecue sticks
• Additional Ingredients
• Pinch of salt for the brigadeiro
• Butter or margarine to grease hands and plates

1. Make the Brigadeiro de Leite Ninho

In a saucepan, combine the powdered milk and sweetened condensed milk. Stir with a silicone spatula until fully dissolved.

Add heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully incorporated.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to detach from the pan, forming clumps when falling from the spatula.

Transfer to a buttered plate, smooth out the surface, cover with plastic wrap touching the brigadeiro, and refrigerate for 2 hours to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Strawberries

Wash the strawberries and select the most intact, fresh ones. Leave the stems on to prevent excess water.

Pat dry with a paper towel.

3. Encase the Strawberries

Grease your hands with butter or margarine. Take a portion of the cooled brigadeiro and flatten it into a disc.

Place a strawberry in the center and wrap the brigadeiro around it, forming a smooth ball, oval, or “coxinha” shape.

Place the coated strawberries on a buttered plate and insert a barbecue stick into each one. Refrigerate while preparing the sugar coating.

Step 2

Step 2

Add heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully incorporated.

4. Make the Sugar Coating

In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and white vinegar. Add red food coloring until the desired shade is reached.

Heat without stirring over medium heat until the sugar syrup reaches 145°C (293°F), or test by dropping a little syrup in cold water—it should harden like glass and produce a “crack” sound.

5. Coat the Strawberries

Remove the strawberries from the fridge and dip each one carefully into the hot sugar syrup.

Let the excess drip off and place them on a buttered plate or tray.

Once the sugar hardens, remove the sticks carefully by twisting and pulling gently.

6. Serve

Your Morango do Amor are ready! Enjoy the combination of crispy sugar shell, creamy milk brigadeiro, and fresh strawberries. They are perfect for sharing with someone special or serving as a stunning dessert at a party.

Tips for Perfect Morango do Amor

• Choose firm, fresh strawberries: Select medium-sized strawberries that are ripe but still firm. Soft berries can release water and make it harder for the brigadeiro to stick.
• Dry the strawberries completely: After washing, pat the berries dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture that can prevent the brigadeiro from adhering properly.
• Grease your hands: Use a little butter or margarine on your hands when shaping the brigadeiro around the strawberries. This prevents sticking and helps you achieve smooth, even balls.
• Chill the brigadeiro: Letting the milk powder brigadeiro firm up in the fridge for 2 hours makes it easier to shape and wrap around the strawberries.
• Work with the sugar syrup carefully: Make sure the syrup reaches the correct temperature (around 145°C / 293°F) before dipping. Use a fork or tongs to handle the strawberries safely.
• Remove sticks gently: After the sugar shell hardens, twist and pull the sticks slowly to avoid cracking the candy coating.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your Morango do Amor the same day they are made. If storing, wrap individually in plastic for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Customize your flavor and color: Add extra drops of red food coloring for a more intense color, or a hint of flavored extract (like vanilla or strawberry) to the brigadeiro for a unique twist.