Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo) is a delicious and addictive snack that is naturally gluten-free. Made with tapioca flour, this soft and chewy bread is packed with two types of cheese, creating a perfectly golden and cheesy biscuit. Perfect for breakfast or as an appetizer, these fluffy bites are sure to impress with their airy texture and rich, cheesy flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups tapioca flour + 1 tablespoon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil

• 1 egg

• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese

• 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Stir the tapioca flour and salt together in a bowl, set aside.

2. In a saucepan, heat the milk and oil together. Once the mixture begins to boil, remove it from heat immediately.

3. Pour the hot milk mixture over the tapioca flour mixture and gently stir until combined. Let it cool slightly.

4. Add the egg to the dough and stir until it forms a sticky ball. Add the cheeses and work the dough until fully incorporated.

5. Oil your hands and form the dough into small balls using a spoon or your hands. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrients (per serving – 1 piece)

• Calories: 150 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 7g

  • Saturated Fat: 2g

• Cholesterol: 22mg

• Sodium: 142mg

• Potassium: 37mg

• Sugar: 1g

• Vitamin A: 106 IU

• Calcium: 83mg

• Iron: 0.4mg

Enjoy this easy-to-make Brazilian treat as a snack or paired with your favorite meal!

Why Pão de Queijo is Loved by Many

The allure of Pão de Queijo lies not only in its simplicity but also in the unique texture it offers. Unlike traditional bread made with wheat flour, Pão de Queijo is made using tapioca flour, which gives it that soft, chewy bite. The dough is combined with rich, melty cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan, which elevate the bread’s flavor. When baked, the exterior becomes slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and cheesy, making it the perfect bite-sized snack.

What makes Pão de Queijo truly special is its ability to be enjoyed at any time of day. It can be a warm and savory breakfast treat, a snack to accompany your afternoon coffee, or a side to a main meal like soups and salads. Its gluten-free nature also makes it suitable for people who need to avoid gluten, but it’s so delicious that even non-gluten-free eaters won’t miss the wheat flour. Pão de Queijo is a snack that transcends dietary needs and brings joy to all who try it.

The Magic of Tapioca Flour

One of the most important ingredients in Pão de Queijo is tapioca flour. This gluten-free flour is made from cassava root, which gives it its distinct chewy and airy texture when baked. Tapioca flour is a key component in the recipe because it binds the dough together while providing the bread with its signature softness. Unlike traditional wheat flour, tapioca flour has a unique ability to trap air pockets, which contributes to the bread’s light, pillowy texture.

The use of tapioca flour also gives Pão de Queijo its ability to be naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease. Tapioca flour is also an excellent source of carbohydrates and contains small amounts of calcium and iron, making it a nutritious addition to this cheese bread recipe.

The Role of Cheese in Brazilian Cheese Bread

The combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese in Pão de Queijo is what makes these cheese breads so addictive. Mozzarella contributes a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while parmesan offers a savory, slightly nutty flavor. Together, they create a well-balanced cheesy experience that enhances the bread without overpowering it.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its gooey and stretchy quality, mozzarella cheese provides a soft, creamy texture that melts beautifully into the bread. It helps create the tender, chewy interior that is one of the key characteristics of Pão de Queijo.

• Parmesan Cheese: The sharp, salty flavor of parmesan complements the mozzarella perfectly. Parmesan has a stronger, more intense flavor that adds depth to the overall taste of the bread. When baked, it contributes to the golden-brown color of the cheese breads and provides an added layer of savory goodness.

Together, these cheeses create a flavorful balance that makes every bite of Pão de Queijo feel indulgent yet comforting.

Making Pão de Queijo: A Simple Process

Making Pão de Queijo is remarkably easy, and the results are well worth the minimal effort. Here’s a quick overview of how to make this cheesy Brazilian treat:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Start by combining the tapioca flour and salt in a bowl. This simple dry mix serves as the base for the dough.

2. Heat the Milk and Oil: In a saucepan, heat the milk and oil until they just begin to boil. This hot mixture is poured over the tapioca flour to form the dough. The heat helps activate the tapioca flour, giving the bread its characteristic texture.

3. Form the Dough: Once the milk mixture is combined with the flour, the dough is left to cool slightly before an egg is added. The dough will be sticky, but that’s expected. You’ll then incorporate the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses until the dough is smooth and cheesy.

4. Shape the Dough: Using your hands (oiled to prevent sticking) or a spoon, form small balls of dough. Place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

5. Bake and Enjoy: Bake the balls at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The aroma while baking is incredible, and once done, these cheesy puffs are ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Though Pão de Queijo is perfect on its own, there are many ways to enjoy it alongside other dishes or elevate it for different occasions. Here are a few ideas:

• Breakfast Treat: Serve Pão de Queijo warm with a cup of coffee or fresh fruit for a simple yet satisfying breakfast. The cheese flavor pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

• Appetizer or Side Dish: Serve Pão de Queijo as an appetizer at your next dinner party or as a side dish with soups, salads, or pasta. The bread is versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes.

• Spicy Variation: For a twist, you can add a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño or chili flakes to the dough before baking. This will provide a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the rich cheese.

• Herb Infusion: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough can give the bread a delightful, fragrant note. Experiment with different herb combinations to create your own signature flavor.

Health Benefits of Pão de Queijo

While Pão de Queijo is a delicious treat, it’s important to note that it is not a low-calorie food, and it is made with cheese, which means it’s rich in fats. However, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Naturally Gluten-Free: Pão de Queijo is a perfect choice for those who are gluten-intolerant or prefer gluten-free foods. The use of tapioca flour ensures that it’s safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

• Good Source of Calcium: The cheeses used in this recipe, particularly the mozzarella and parmesan, are good sources of calcium, which is essential for bone health.

• Protein and Carbohydrates: The combination of cheese and tapioca flour provides a balance of carbohydrates and protein, giving you energy to power through the day.

• No Added Sugars: This recipe contains no added sugars, making it a healthier choice compared to many other baked goods or snacks.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Addictive Brazilian Snack

Brazilian Cheese Bread, or Pão de Queijo, is a simple yet irresistible treat that everyone can enjoy. The combination of tapioca flour and cheese creates a soft, chewy texture that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or breakfast, these golden, cheesy bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This naturally gluten-free dish offers a rich, cheesy flavor and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. From the creamy mozzarella to the nutty parmesan, Pão de Queijo is the perfect example of how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re sharing them with friends at a party or enjoying them on your own, Pão de Queijo will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.