If you’re in the mood for a snack that brings joy with every bite, look no further than Brazilian cheese bread, or Pão de Queijo.
This beloved Brazilian treat has won hearts (and stomachs) all over the world with its irresistible combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior filled with warm, melty cheese.
Traditionally enjoyed at breakfast or as a snack, these little cheese puffs are gluten-free and incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic addition to any meal or gathering.
Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this Brazilian favorite.
The Popularity of Pão de Queijo in Brazilian Cafes
Walk into any Brazilian café, and you’ll likely see Pão de Queijo proudly displayed on the counter. It’s not just a bread but a cultural icon.
Many Brazilians have fond memories of enjoying these cheesy delights with family and friends. Cafes often serve them fresh from the oven, and their irresistible aroma can draw in even the most dedicated non-Brazilian customer.
It’s not uncommon to find them as part of a traditional Brazilian breakfast or as an accompaniment to a strong espresso.
Their popularity is a testament to their universal appeal and the comfort they bring to those who taste them.
Brazilian Cheese Bread
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack, or Side Dish
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 110
Yield: 24 mini cheese breads
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Muffin tin or mini muffin pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheese (Mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional for extra fluffiness)
For Topping (Optional):
- Additional grated cheese for sprinkling
How to Make Brazilian Cheese Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat the Liquid Ingredients
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and salt. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat once it simmers.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour and baking powder. Pour the hot milk mixture over the flour and stir until well combined. The dough will be sticky.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Cheese
Let the dough cool for a few minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Fold in the grated cheese until evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
Step 6: Add Toppings
If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top of each dough ball for an extra cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and puffed up. The cheese bread should be crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Serving Suggestions For Brazilian Cheese Bread
Pão de Queijo pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or hot chocolate. It can also be served alongside soups or salads as a tasty side.
These cheese-filled delights are perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as an appetizer at a dinner party. They’re incredibly versatile and can fit into any meal of the day.
Why Is Brazilian Cheese Bread Gluten-Free?
Since Pão de Queijo is made using tapioca flour instead of wheat flour, it’s entirely gluten-free. Tapioca flour, extracted from the cassava root, is a versatile ingredient in many gluten-free recipes.
For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, Pão de Queijo offers a delicious alternative to traditional bread. It’s light on the stomach and won’t trigger gluten-related issues.
Can You Freeze Brazilian Cheese Bread?
Best Freezing Practices
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them fresh whenever you’re craving Pão de Queijo. Simply place the formed dough on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, just pop the frozen dough balls directly into the oven and bake a few extra minutes longer than usual.
FAQs About Brazilian Cheese Bread
What cheese is best for Brazilian cheese bread?
For the most authentic flavor, use Minas cheese, if available. If not, parmesan or mozzarella are great substitutes, providing a similar texture and taste.
Can I make Pão de Queijo without tapioca flour?
Tapioca flour is essential for the unique texture of Pão de Queijo. Substituting it with another type of flour will alter the bread’s consistency and may not yield the same results.
How do I store Brazilian cheese bread?
Store Pão de Queijo in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked bread or unbaked dough balls.
Is Brazilian cheese bread healthy?
Pão de Queijo is a good source of protein and is naturally gluten-free, making it a healthier alternative for those with gluten sensitivities. However, like all bread products, it should be enjoyed in moderation.
Can I use different types of flour?
While tapioca flour is crucial for the classic texture, experimenting with different types of flour could lead to interesting variations. Just be aware that it will change the final product’s texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Brazilian cheese bread, or Pão de Queijo, is more than just a snack—it’s a beloved part of Brazilian culture with a rich history and unique flavors.
Whether you’re enjoying it at a café in Brazil or making it at home, its delightful combination of tapioca flour and cheese makes for a mouthwatering treat.
The flexibility in its ingredients and serving options means it can fit into any meal, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.
So why not give it a try? With this guide, you’re all set to create your own batch of Pão de Queijo and savor a slice of Brazilian culinary tradition.
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Brazilian Cheese Bread
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Muffin tin or mini muffin pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheese Mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix
- 1 teaspoon baking powder optional for extra fluffiness
For Topping (Optional):
- Additional grated cheese for sprinkling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat the Liquid Ingredients
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and salt. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat once it simmers.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour and baking powder. Pour the hot milk mixture over the flour and stir until well combined. The dough will be sticky.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Cheese
- Let the dough cool for a few minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Fold in the grated cheese until evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
Step 6: Add Toppings
- If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top of each dough ball for an extra cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and puffed up. The cheese bread should be crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
Step 8: Serve
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.