The aroma of freshly baked Bread has always been my ultimate comfort, a scent that instantly transports me back to cherished memories in my own kitchen. There’s something truly magical about pulling a warm, golden treat from the oven, especially when it’s something as delightfully unique and comforting as Brazilian Cheese Bread. I remember the first time I tried Pão de Queijo at a local Brazilian café; it was love at first bite!
That chewy, cheesy interior encased in a crisp, slightly crunchy exterior was unlike anything I had ever tasted. I knew immediately I had to recreate that magic at home, tailoring it to be as easy and family-friendly as possible. After countless batches and tweaks, I’ve perfected a recipe for this beloved Brazilian Cheese Bread that consistently delivers those light, airy, and utterly addictive cheese puffs.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple in my comfort food repertoire, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a delightful side dish. Prepare to fall in love with this simple yet sensational Brazilian Cheese Bread.
Why You’ll Love This Brazilian Cheese Bread Recipe
You are about to discover your new favorite snack, breakfast item, or dinner side. This Brazilian Cheese Bread recipe truly stands out for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make.
Despite its gourmet taste and texture, the preparation process is straightforward, perfect for even novice bakers. Secondly, the texture is simply divine; imagine a light, airy interior that’s wonderfully chewy, contrasted with a perfectly crisp outer shell. This unique combination makes each bite an experience.
Furthermore, it’s naturally gluten-free, thanks to the star ingredient, tapioca flour, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. Finally, the flavor profile is rich and cheesy, satisfying that craving for savory comfort food without being overly heavy. You’ll find yourself reaching for another one of these delightful Brazilian Cheese Bread puffs almost immediately!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this incredible Brazilian Cheese Bread. Every component plays a crucial role in achieving the signature texture and flavor.
* 2 cups (240g) tapioca flour (also known as tapioca starch or polvilho doce)
* 1 cup (240ml) milk (any kind works: whole, 2%, or even unsweetened plant-based milk)
* ½ cup (120ml) neutral oil (like canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 large eggs
* 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan is fantastic, or use Monterey Jack for extra meltiness)
Substitutions & Variations
This Brazilian Cheese Bread recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
* Cheese: While a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan is classic, you can get creative. Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, provolone for extra stretch, or even a touch of cream cheese for added richness. Just ensure your chosen cheese melts well.
For a truly authentic touch, if you can find it, use *minas cheese*.
* Dairy-Free: To make a dairy-free Brazilian Cheese Bread, simply swap the regular milk for an unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or soy milk, and use a high-quality dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. The texture will still be fantastic!
* Herbs & Spices: Elevate your cheese bread with additions! A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can deepen the savory notes. Freshly chopped chives, parsley, or dried oregano mixed into the dough add a lovely aromatic twist to your Brazilian Cheese Bread.
* Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can be a wonderful addition to the dough.
* Oil: You can use olive oil if you prefer, though a neutral oil ensures the cheese flavor shines through.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating your own batch of irresistible Brazilian Cheese Bread is simpler than you think. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
This helps prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, measure out the tapioca flour.
Set it aside for a moment.
3. Heat Liquid Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the milk, neutral oil, and salt.
Heat this mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, but do not bring it to a rolling boil. Small bubbles will form around the edges.
4.
Scald the Tapioca: Immediately pour the hot milk mixture over the tapioca flour in the large bowl. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture forms a shaggy, thick dough. The hot liquid “cooks” the tapioca flour, which is crucial for the unique chewy texture of your Brazilian Cheese Bread.
Let this mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes. It needs to be cool enough to touch without scrambling the eggs.
5.
Add Eggs and Cheese: Once the tapioca mixture has cooled down, crack in the two large eggs. Mix well, either with your hands or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, until the eggs are fully incorporated and the dough becomes sticky and uniform. Then, add the shredded cheese and continue mixing until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
The dough for your Brazilian Cheese Bread will be soft and sticky.
6. Form the Puffs: Using a small scoop or two spoons, portion the dough into approximately 1-inch balls and place them in the prepared muffin tin or on the baking sheet.
You can also roll them lightly between your palms if you prefer a smoother shape.
7. Bake: Transfer the cheese bread balls to the preheated oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up, golden brown, and slightly firm to the touch. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your Brazilian Cheese Bread puffs.
8.
Serve Warm: Remove the Brazilian Cheese Bread from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when they are at their cheesiest and chewiest.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect Brazilian Cheese Bread every time is easy with a few insider tips. These small adjustments make a big difference in the final product.
* Tapioca Flour is Key: Do not substitute tapioca flour with any other flour (like cornstarch or wheat flour). Tapioca flour (polvilho doce) is unique; it provides the characteristic chewy, stretchy texture that makes Brazilian Cheese Bread so special and gluten-free.
* Scalding is Crucial: Ensure the milk and oil mixture is hot enough to scald the tapioca flour.
This initial “cooking” step is what creates the perfect dough consistency and allows for that signature airy interior. However, avoid boiling it aggressively.
* Cool the Dough: After scalding the tapioca, let the mixture cool significantly before adding the eggs.
Adding eggs to a hot dough will scramble them, ruining the texture of your Brazilian Cheese Bread.
* Mixing the Dough: The dough will be very sticky. Don’t be alarmed!
This is normal for Brazilian Cheese Bread. If you find it too difficult to handle with your hands, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works wonders.
* Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your Brazilian Cheese Bread while it bakes.
You want them golden and puffy, but overbaking can make them dry. They continue to cook slightly after removal from the oven.
* Uniform Size: Try to make your cheese bread balls roughly the same size. This ensures even baking, so all your Brazilian Cheese Bread puffs are perfectly cooked simultaneously.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While Brazilian Cheese Bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can absolutely make them ahead or store leftovers for future enjoyment.
* Storing Unbaked Dough: You can prepare the dough up to the point of forming the balls, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking as directed.
* Freezing Unbaked Dough: For longer storage, form the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
Once frozen, transfer the solid balls to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, until golden and puffed.
This is a fantastic way to always have fresh Brazilian Cheese Bread on hand!
* Storing Baked Bread: Leftover baked Brazilian Cheese Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They might lose a bit of their crispiness.
* Reheating Baked Bread: To restore their delightful texture, reheat baked Brazilian Cheese Bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy again. A toaster oven also works wonderfully for a quick reheat. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soft and chewy without the crisp exterior.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Brazilian Cheese Bread is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals and occasions. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them:
* Breakfast or Brunch: They are phenomenal alongside a cup of coffee or tea, a fresh fruit salad, scrambled eggs, or even a simple piece of toast. They make an elevated addition to any breakfast spread.
* Snack Time: Enjoy them on their own as a satisfying and flavorful snack.
They are perfect for afternoon cravings or as an appetizer.
* Soups and Stews: The savory, cheesy flavor and chewy texture of Brazilian Cheese Bread complement hearty soups and stews beautifully. Try them with a classic tomato soup or a robust lentil stew.
* With a Meal: Serve them as a unique and delicious side dish with grilled meats, chicken, or a light salad. They add a touch of gourmet flair to any dinner.
* Charcuterie Board: Include them on a charcuterie or cheese board for a delightful gluten-free option. Their unique texture and cheesy taste make them a standout alongside cured meats, olives, and fruit.
FAQs
What is tapioca flour?
Tapioca flour, also known as tapioca starch or polvilho doce, comes from the cassava root. It’s a naturally gluten-free flour with a very fine, powdery texture. It’s essential for Brazilian Cheese Bread because it creates the signature chewy, elastic texture that cannot be replicated with other flours.
Can I make Brazilian Cheese Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Even better, you can freeze the raw formed balls for up to 2-3 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time, for fresh Brazilian Cheese Bread whenever you desire.
Is Brazilian Cheese Bread gluten-free?
Yes, this Brazilian Cheese Bread recipe is naturally gluten-free! The primary ingredient is tapioca flour, which is derived from the cassava root and contains no gluten. This makes it an excellent option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Why are my cheese breads flat?
If your Brazilian Cheese Bread comes out flat, it could be due to a few reasons. The most common cause is not heating the milk/oil mixture enough to scald the tapioca flour properly. This crucial step activates the tapioca and helps the bread puff up.
Also, ensuring your baking soda or powder (if using, though not in this specific recipe) is fresh, or that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature, can impact puffiness. Over-mixing the dough after adding eggs can also sometimes lead to a flatter result.
What kind of cheese is best for Brazilian Cheese Bread?
A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese offers a fantastic balance of meltiness and flavor for Brazilian Cheese Bread. Mozzarella provides the stretch and a mild, creamy taste, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty depth. However, feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or provolone to find your favorite combination!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Estimates based on approximately 24 servings per recipe)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 160mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
Brazilian Cheese Bread
- Total Time: 35-40 mins
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Brazilian Cheese Bread, known as Pão de Queijo, is a delightful and cheesy treat that is easy to make and gluten-free. With a chewy, airy interior and a crispy exterior, it's perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups Tapioca Flour
1 cup Milk
½ cup Neutral Oil
1 teaspoon Salt
2 large Eggs
1 ½ cups Shredded Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- In a large mixing bowl, measure out the tapioca flour and set aside
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk, neutral oil, and salt. Heat over medium until it begins to simmer
- Pour the hot milk mixture over the tapioca flour and stir until it forms a shaggy dough. Let cool for 10-15 minutes
- Add the eggs to the cool tapioca mixture and mix well until incorporated
- Stir in the shredded cheese until evenly mixed throughout the dough
- Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls and place them in the prepared muffin tin or on the baking sheet
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brow
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm
Notes
Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best flavor.
For dairy-free options, substitute with unsweetened plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15-20 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese puff
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg