Brigadeiro - From Brazil to Old Hatfield
Two years ago, I stood in awe in São Paulo, Brazil, walking through the vibrant streets, visiting brigadeiro and chocolate shops that inspired me in ways I couldn’t fully articulate at the time. Places like Maria Brigadeiro, Brigaderia, and Cacau Show left me mesmerised—not just by their luxurious sweets, but by their artistry, passion, and dedication to the craft of chocolate-making. Every truffle, every brigadeiro was a story in itself, an expression of love and tradition wrapped in tiny, edible jewels.
Back then, I was running a small brigadeiro business out of my registered kitchen at home, working part-time while dreaming of bigger things. I couldn’t help but wonder: What if I could bring this magical Brazilian experience closer to people in the UK? What if I could create a space where people could fall in love with brigadeiros the same way I had?
Fast forward to 2024, and that dream became a reality. This past year, we opened Emmy's brigadeiro, the UK’s first-ever shop dedicated solely to brigadeiros in the charming town of Old Hatfield, just a stone’s throw—3 minutes, to be exact—from the historic Hatfield House.
Our shop is more than just a place to buy sweets; it’s a celebration of Brazilian culture, creativity, and tradition. We specialise in fresh brigadeiros presented in beautiful gift boxes, perfect for any occasion. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve expanded to offer catering for weddings, creating personalised treats that add a touch of sweetness to life’s most special moments. We also run workshops for children and adults, sharing the joy of crafting brigadeiros by hand and spreading a little Brazilian magic with every roll and sprinkle.
Since opening, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with brands and organisations we’d only dreamed of collaborating with: Vogue, Arsenal Football Club, and even attending the BBC/ITV Christmas fair. Each milestone feels surreal, a testament to how far we’ve come from the tiny kitchen where it all started.
Looking back, it’s humbling to think that what was once just a daydream in Brazil is now our reality in the heart of Old Hatfield. The inspiration I drew from Maria Brigadeiro’s exquisite flavours, Brigaderia’s creative flair, and Cacau Show’s dedication to quality and accessibility is now infused in every part of what we do.
As we step into 2025, our excitement for what’s ahead is boundless. We have new plans and goals—ones that continue to push the boundaries of what we can achieve. Whether it’s expanding our offerings, hosting more events, or finding new ways to share brigadeiros with the world, we’re ready to make it happen.
To anyone who has ever dreamed of turning their passion into a reality: take the leap. Visit the places that inspire you, immerse yourself in their stories, and trust the process. Two years ago, this was only a vision in my heart. Today, it’s a vibrant shop filled with creativity, and endless chocolatey goodness.
Thank you for being part of our journey so far. Here’s to another year of dreams, chocolate, and a sprinkle of Brazilian magic!
What do you think? Would you like to add more about your personal connection to brigadeiro, Brazilian culture or specific goals for 2025?