Cajuzinho: Brazilian Party Sweet (Dairy-Free Option)
Cajuzinho is a classic Brazilian party sweet with a soft, chewy texture and a rich peanut flavor balanced by cocoa. Our recipe uses roasted peanuts for an intense flavor, with a dairy-free option for those needing an allergy-friendly treat.
Ingredients
- 200 mls sweetened condensed milk* (about 6.8 oz)
- 2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups roasted unsalted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1-2 cup granulated sugar
Step-By-Step ImagesScroll back for process images and recipe tips!
Instructions
- Roast the Peanuts: Despite being roasted, we will give our peanuts a quick roast to bring out the oils and deepen the flavor. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and roast for 5-8 minutes until golden and aromatic. Let them cool
- Grind the Peanuts: Once the peanuts are cool, grind them in a food processor until they reach a coarse, sand-like texture. You shoudl get 3 cups of peanut flour. Be careful not to over-process, or the peanuts will become too oily. If needed, add a pinch of cornstarch to absorb excess oil.1 ½ cups roasted unsalted peanuts
- Prepare the Base: Add the peanut flour into a large bowl, then sift in the powdered cocoa to remove any lumps. Stir in the salt and cinnamon (if using). Then slowly add in the condensed milk until you get a thick sticky batter. If the mixture feels too wet, add more ground peanuts to thicken it.200 mls sweetened condensed milk*, 2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Chill the Mixture (Optional Step): Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes so it can firm up and become easier to shape.
- Shape the Cajuzinhos: Lightly grease your hands with coconut oil or butter. Roll small portions of the mixture into oval or cashew-like shapes.
- Roll and Garnish: Place the granulated sugar on a plate and roll each Cajuzinho in sugar to coat it. Then, place a whole or half peanut at the end of each cajuzihno.1-2 cup granulated sugar
- Garnish: Serve them immediately or refrigerate them for a firmer texture.
Notes
* For a dairy-free alternative you can use condensed coconut milk. We have tested this recipe with both options and both work well.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Tip: For the perfect peanut flour texture, pulse in short bursts, and avoid over-processing to prevent oily peanuts.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 126kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 93mgPotassium: 141mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 35IUVitamin B12: 0.1µgVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 0.4mgZinc: 0.4mg
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comments !