Cajuzinho

Cajuzinho is a popular Brazilian sweet, often shaped to resemble a cashew nut. It is a common confection at parties and celebrations, particularly for children's birthdays. The characteristic shape is achieved by molding the dough around a peanut or a cashew nut, then topping it with a clove, which resembles the stem of the cashew fruit.

The primary ingredients for cajuzinho typically include condensed milk, butter, and ground peanuts. These are mixed together and cooked until the mixture thickens. Once cooled, the dough is shaped into small ovals, and a piece of peanut or cashew is inserted into one end. The other end is decorated with a clove. Sometimes, a light coating of sugar is applied to the finished sweet.

Variations of cajuzinho exist, with some recipes incorporating cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor or using different nuts like almonds. Despite these variations, the classic peanut and condensed milk base remains the most traditional. The texture is usually soft and chewy, with the crunch of the embedded nut providing a contrast. Cajuzinho is a beloved part of Brazilian culinary culture, enjoyed for its simple yet satisfying taste and its festive presentation.