If you grew up in Brazil, chances are you’ve heard of (or devoured) Bolo Formigueiro—also known as “Ant Hill Cake.” It’s a soft, fluffy vanilla cake sprinkled with chocolate sprinkles that melt slightly during baking, creating little specks throughout the crumb—just like an ant hill!
This cake is simple, nostalgic, and absolutely perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. In this article, you’ll learn how to make a classic bolo formigueiro from scratch, with all the texture and flavor you remember (or will soon discover).
What Makes It “Formigueiro”?
The name comes from the visual appearance—once baked, the chocolate sprinkles spread through the batter and resemble tiny ants scattered through the cake. But don’t worry, these “ants” are sweet, melty, and totally delicious.
Ingredients for Formigueiro Cake
Dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
Wet ingredients:
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (softened) or oil
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or coconut extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles (nonpareils or “granulado de chocolate”)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar
- Chocolate glaze
- More sprinkles on top after baking
Instructions: Step by Step
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan, loaf pan, or round pan.
2. In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and creamy. If using oil, just whisk with sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla or coconut extract.
5. Add the milk alternately with the flour, mixing gently. Finally, add baking powder and salt.
6. Fold in the chocolate sprinkles and shredded coconut, if using. Mix gently to avoid breaking the sprinkles.
7. Pour into the prepared pan and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
8. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool for 10–15 minutes, then remove from pan and let cool completely.
Tips for the Best Texture
- Don’t overmix after adding the sprinkles – they’ll melt too much or sink.
- Use real chocolate sprinkles (not wax-based), which melt better and give more flavor.
- Shredded coconut adds extra texture and flavor, pairing perfectly with vanilla or coconut extract.
- If using a bundt pan, grease it well, especially around edges and crevices.
Variations You Can Try
- Formigueiro with Chocolate Glaze
Drizzle a simple ganache (chocolate + cream) over the cooled cake. - Orange Formigueiro
Add 1 tbsp of orange zest to the batter for a citrus touch. - Gluten-Free Version
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix and add 1 tsp of xanthan gum if needed. - Mini Formigueiros
Bake in cupcake liners and reduce bake time to 18–20 minutes.
How to Serve
- Serve it plain with coffee or tea
- Top with a dusting of powdered sugar
- Warm slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Drizzle with condensed milk for an indulgent Brazilian-style dessert
A Sweet and Simple Treat, Full of Memories
Formigueiro cake is the kind of recipe that brings joy with every bite—simple, moist, and just whimsical enough to make both kids and adults smile. Whether it’s your first time making it or a recipe you’re revisiting from childhood, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
So go ahead—mix up some sprinkles and make this nostalgic favorite today!
