Name: No-Cook Cajuzinho: 4-Ingredient Peanut Bliss You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Roasted Unsalted Peanuts (Peeled, can substitute with cashews); 1 can Sweet Condensed Milk (Essential for the Cajuzinho experience); 1 cup Cocoa Powder (Can substitute with chocolate powder); 1/2 cup Sugar (For rolling to give a sweet finish)

The first time I bit into a Cajuzinho, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Brazil, where the scent of roasted peanuts mingled with joyful laughter. This delightful treat, sweet and slightly chocolatey, quickly became a favorite in my home, especially during gatherings with family and friends. The magic of these Brazilian peanut candies lies not only in their rich flavor but also in their simplicity. With just four ingredients and zero cooking involved, you can whip up a batch in under an hour—perfect for those unexpected guests or as an irresistible homemade gift. As I mixed the peanut goodness, I couldn’t help but think of all the happy faces that would soon indulge in these charming little sweets. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or add a dollop of fun to your afternoon, these no-cook Cajuzinhos are the answer to your cravings for something deliciously different!

Why is Cajuzinho the Perfect Treat?

Simplicity at its finest: These no-cook Cajuzinhos require just four ingredients, making them incredibly easy to whip up anytime. Deliciously Unique: The combination of roasted peanuts and cocoa powder creates a flavor profile you won’t find in typical candies. Versatile delights: Customize your Cajuzinhos with different nuts or a splash of vanilla extract for added flair. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at parties or family gatherings, these treats are sure to bring smiles and spark conversations. Quick and Easy: In under an hour, you can prepare and serve these delightful sweets, perfect for unexpected visitors or last-minute gifts. Enjoy the sweet taste of Brazil from the comfort of your home with these delightful treats!

Cajuzinho Ingredients

• Immerse yourself in the joy of making Cajuzinhos with just four simple ingredients!

For the Base

Roasted Unsalted Peanuts – Ensure they’re peeled for the best flavor and texture; feel free to substitute with cashews for a traditional twist.
Sweet Condensed Milk – This ingredient adds the perfect sweetness and binds the mixture; there are no substitutes recommended here, as it is essential for the Cajuzinho experience.

For Flavoring

Cocoa Powder – This adds a delightful chocolate flavor; you can also use chocolate powder if you prefer.

For Coating

Sugar – Used for rolling to give a sweet, decorative finish to your Cajuzinhos, enhancing both taste and texture!

How to Make Cajuzinho

Prepare Peanuts: Start by separating 50 whole peanuts for decoration. Then, grind the remaining roasted unsalted peanuts into a fine flour using a blender or food processor until it resembles sand.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the ground peanuts and cocoa powder together. Add in the sweet condensed milk and stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a homogeneous blend.
Rest Mixture: Allow the mixture to rest on the counter for 20 minutes or place it in the fridge for 15 minutes. This resting time helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to handle.
Shape Cajuzinhos: Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture, roll it into a ball, and shape it into a cashew form using your fingers. You won’t need any oil on your hands for rolling.
Coat in Sugar: Roll each shaped cajuzinho in sugar to coat it. Gently press a whole peanut on top of each piece for that signature look and added crunch.
Serve or Store: Arrange your delightful cajuzinhos on a platter or in candy cups for an inviting presentation. They’re ready to share, or you can store them in an airtight container.

Optional: Sprinkle some cocoa powder on top for an extra chocolatey touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cajuzinho?

Indulging in these tasty treats opens the door to creating a full, delightful meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweet, nutty flavors of Cajuzinhos.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold notes of a good brew enhance the chocolatey undertones, making for a perfect after-meal treat.
Coconut Flan: This creamy, silky dessert offers a luscious contrast to the firmer texture of Cajuzinhos, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Chocolate Dip: Serve Cajuzinhos alongside a warm chocolate sauce for an extra layer of indulgence; the combination will leave your guests craving more.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cold, creamy element that beautifully complements the nutty warmth of the candies.
Milk or Almond Milk: A simple glass of milk stands as a classic pairing that rounds off the sweetness while keeping things wholesome.
Tea Infusion: Herbal or fruity teas create a calming finish to the day, their gentle flavors harmonizing beautifully with the Cajuzinhos.

Make Ahead Options

These no-cook Cajuzinhos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get a head start on your candy-making! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps: grind the peanuts, combine the ground peanuts with cocoa powder and sweet condensed milk, and let the mixture rest (either on the counter for 20 minutes or in the fridge for 15). To maintain quality, keep the mixture covered in the fridge until you’re ready to shape and coat them. When it’s time to finish, simply scoop the mixture, roll into shape, and coat in sugar as normal, ensuring they remain just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Cajuzinhos

Texture Matters: Aim for a sand-like consistency when grinding peanuts; avoid turning them into peanut butter, which will ruin the texture of your Cajuzinhos.
Portion Control: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all candies are uniform in size, which helps them look more appealing when served at gatherings.
Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step; it’s crucial for ensuring your mixture is easy to shape without sticking to your hands.
Sugar Rolling: Roll your Cajuzinhos in sugar right after shaping, while they’re still slightly moist, for a better coating that will stick.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration to prevent the sugar coating from melting away.

How to Store and Freeze Cajuzinho

Airtight Container: Keep your Cajuzinhos in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor, where they can last up to 5 days.

Avoid Refrigeration: Do not refrigerate your Cajuzinhos, as the cold can melt the sugar coating, affecting their delightful finish.

Freezer Storage: If you need to store Cajuzinhos longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating (if needed): Simply let the frozen Cajuzinhos thaw at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before serving to enjoy their sweet, nutty flavor again.

Cajuzinho Variations & Substitutions

Invite your creativity to flow as you explore delightful twists on this beloved Brazilian treat!

Chocolate-Enhanced: Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. It’s a simple change that can elevate the sweetness immensely!
Nutty Alternatives: Swap roasted peanuts for other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to discover new textures and flavors. Each nut brings its own unique charm to the mix!
Vanilla Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract into your mixture for an aromatic touch that harmonizes beautifully with the peanuts and cocoa. Your kitchen will smell amazing while you mix!
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut mix. This surprising addition pairs explosively with the sweetness!
Sugar Variations: Try rolling Cajuzinhos in coconut flakes or crushed pretzels instead of sugar for a crunchy and flavorful coating. This will add an unexpected twist that both kids and adults will love!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute sweet condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The texture might change slightly, but you’ll enjoy a cool, tropical flavor!
Snack Bars: Press the mixture into a lined baking dish instead of shaping them into balls. Once set, cut them into bite-sized squares for an easy grab-and-go snack!
Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in finely chopped dried fruits, like raisins or apricots, to give your Cajuzinhos bursts of chewy sweetness that complement the nutty flavors perfectly.

Let’s embark on this journey of flavor and texture—you won’t regret it!

Cajuzinho Recipe FAQs

What type of peanuts should I use for Cajuzinhos?
I recommend using roasted unsalted peanuts, as they provide the best flavor and texture for your Cajuzinhos. Ensure they are peeled, as this makes the mixture smoother. If you’re looking for a twist, you can use cashews instead for a more traditional texture, but don’t skip the roasting!

How should I store my Cajuzinhos?
Keep your Cajuzinhos in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their delightful texture and flavor, where they last up to 5 days. Avoid refrigeration, as the cold can melt the sugar coating and make your treats lose their charming finish.

Can I freeze Cajuzinhos?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cajuzinhos, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for 15-30 minutes.

What should I do if my mixture is too sticky?
If your Cajuzinho mixture is too sticky, it might be due to the sweet condensed milk or if the mixture hasn’t rested enough. Try letting it rest longer at room temperature or in the fridge. If that doesn’t help, you can add a small amount of extra ground peanuts until it reaches a manageable consistency.

Are Cajuzinhos suitable for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, Cajuzinhos are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies, as peanuts and cashews are the main ingredients. For those without allergies, they make a delightful treat full of flavor. Always be cautious about cross-contamination, particularly if you are sharing them with guests or family members who may have dietary restrictions.

Can I customize my Cajuzinhos with different flavors?
Yes! You can definitely customize your Cajuzinhos. For a chocolatey twist, just add a little more cocoa powder, or use chocolate sprinkles for coating. You might also experiment with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor, or even try replacing peanuts with other nuts like almonds or pecans for a new taste experience.