
Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, is a delightful gluten-free snack made with tapioca flour and cheese. These chewy, cheesy bites are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish. Popular in Brazil, they are loved for their light texture and irresistible cheesy flavor.
Ingredients:
For Pão de Queijo (Makes ~24 pieces):
2 cups (280 g) tapioca flour
1 cup (250 ml) milk
1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or butter
1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
1 cup (120 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup (120 g) grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dough Base: In a saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil (or butter), and salt. Heat over medium flame until just boiling. Remove from heat.
Mix in Tapioca Flour: Gradually add tapioca flour to the hot liquid, stirring vigorously until a sticky dough forms.
Incorporate Cheese and Eggs: Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Then mix in the grated cheeses and eggs until well combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Shape the Dough: Wet your hands with water and roll small balls of dough, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1–2 inches apart.
Bake the Pão de Queijo: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Serving: Enjoy Pão de Queijo warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with coffee or tea for a traditional Brazilian experience. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore their chewiness.
Pão de Queijo is a timeless Brazilian classic that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or craving a comforting snack, these cheesy breads are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.