beijinho

Beijinho, also known as beijinho de coco, is a Brazilian coconut-based sweet. The name means “little kiss” in Portuguese. It is a popular dessert in Brazilian cuisine, commonly prepared for celebrations and parties.

The typical preparation combines condensed milk, butter, and grated coconut. The mixture is cooked in a pan over medium heat until it thickens and becomes creamy. After cooling, additional grated coconut is often incorporated to form a smooth dough that can be shaped into small balls.

These balls are traditionally rolled in granulated sugar or more grated coconut. A single clove is commonly pressed into the top of each ball, giving the dessert its distinctive aroma and contributing to its name and presentation.

Beijinho is frequently served at birthday parties in Brazil and is usually offered alongside other sweets such as brigadeiro. It is valued for its sweet, coconut-forward flavor and ease of preparation, making it a staple in festive gatherings.

Variations exist, including adjustments to coconut content or the use of different dairy products to alter texture. Some versions also experiment with garnishes or colorings, but the classic form remains a coconut-forward bite-sized treat.