Brigadeiro Cheesecake
Brigadeiro cheesecake combines the rich flavors of Brazilian brigadeiros with the creamy texture of classic cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. With a chocolate cookie crust, rich cream cheese filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping, this cheesecake is sure to impress friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
Making brigadeiro cheesecake is a delightful way to experience different tastes and textures. The combination of creamy, chocolatey goodness with a crunchy base makes for a delicious dessert. It’s relatively easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for parties or gatherings. Plus, the mini brigadeiros as decoration add a cute touch that everyone will love!
How to Make Brigadeiro Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (or digestive cookies)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3 packages (225g each) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 200g black chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Mini Brigadeiros (for decoration)
- Chocolate granules (for decoration)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Stir until well coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form a uniform crust. Bake for 10 minutes and then let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing well.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set and slightly wobbly.
- Let cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the ganache, combine dark chocolate, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a small pan over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Let ganache cool slightly, then pour over the cooled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
- Decorate with mini brigadeiros around the edge and sprinkle chocolate granules over the ganache.
- Cut and serve to enjoy the creamy layers.
How to Serve Brigadeiro Cheesecake
Serve brigadeiro cheesecake chilled. Cut it into slices and arrange them on a plate. You can add extra mini brigadeiros or chocolate granules on top for an appealing presentation. This dessert pairs well with coffee or a glass of milk.
How to Store Brigadeiro Cheesecake
Store any leftover brigadeiro cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Brigadeiro Cheesecake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip refrigerating the cheesecake overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache to enhance the taste.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar in the cheesecake filling if desired.
Variation
You can add different flavors to the cheesecake, such as adding orange or coffee extracts for a unique twist. Alternatively, you can use white chocolate for the ganache for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use any type of cookies you like, such as Oreos or graham crackers.
2. How long does it take to make brigadeiro cheesecake?
The total time including baking and chilling can be around 6-8 hours, so it’s best to make it a day ahead.
3. Can I make brigadeiro cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cookies for the crust and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
4. Is it difficult to make brigadeiro cheesecake?
No, brigadeiro cheesecake is quite simple to make, even for beginners. Just follow the steps carefully, and you’ll have a delicious dessert!
5. Can I skip the ganache?
Yes, if you prefer, you can serve the cheesecake plain or with whipped cream instead of the ganache.

Brigadeiro Cheesecake
- Total Time: 390 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious blend of Brazilian brigadeiros and classic cheesecake, featuring a chocolate cookie crust, creamy filling, and decadent ganache.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (or digestive cookies)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3 packages (225g each) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 200g black chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Mini Brigadeiros (for decoration)
- Chocolate granules (for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter, stirring until coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form a uniform crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing well.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set and slightly wobbly.
- Let cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the ganache, combine dark chocolate, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a small pan over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Let ganache cool slightly, then pour over the cooled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
- Decorate with mini brigadeiros around the edge and sprinkle chocolate granules over the ganache.
- Cut and serve to enjoy the creamy layers.
Notes
Make sure to use softened cream cheese for easy mixing. Refrigerate overnight for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Brigadeiro, Cheesecake, Brazilian dessert, chocolate, creamy dessert
