Brazilian Cheese Bread | Simple Cheesy Goodness from Scratch

Introduction
Brazilian cheese bread, also called Pão de Queijo, is a classic snack that’s both crisp and tender, bringing bold cheesy flavor in every bite. Known for its chewy center and golden exterior, this gluten-free treat is made from naturally starchy tapioca flour. It’s incredibly simple to make at home and ideal as a savory snack, appetizer, or brunch side dish. These delightful puffs bring a little bit of Brazil to your kitchen in less than an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for gluten-free diets without needing substitutes.
Quick to mix and bake, making them great for busy schedules.
The cheesy, chewy bite is unlike any other baked good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tapioca Flour – 2 cups
Tapioca flour gives this bread its distinctive stretch and chew. It’s naturally gluten-free and forms the signature texture when heated and mixed with the other ingredients.

Unsalted Butter – ½ cup
Butter provides a rich, slightly salty flavor while helping form the dough’s base. Using unsalted lets you control the seasoning better.

Whole Milk – ⅔ cup
Milk adds moisture and fat, creating a soft dough and contributing to the bread’s crisp outside and tender inside.

Salt – 1 teaspoon
This boosts the flavor of both the dough and cheese. Don’t skip it.

Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) – 1 cup
Parmesan delivers a bold, salty, nutty flavor that stands out in every bite. Freshly grated is best for the smoothest texture.

White Cheddar Cheese – ½ cup
White cheddar melts beautifully and balances the sharpness of the Parmesan with creamy richness. Mozzarella or another melty cheese also works.

Eggs – 2 large
Eggs act as a binder and help the dough puff as it bakes. They also create that glossy finish and springy texture inside.

How to Make Brazilian Cheese Bread
To create this cheesy delight, start by heating the milk, butter, and salt until they boil. That mixture is poured over tapioca flour to form a thick dough. After resting, you’ll stir in the cheeses and eggs to complete the batter. Scoop it into small mounds and bake until golden and puffed. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Get your oven ready
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or use a greased muffin pan for uniform shapes.

Step 2: Boil the wet mixture
Combine butter, milk, and salt in a small pot. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then remove it from the burner as soon as bubbles appear.

Step 3: Mix with flour
Place the tapioca flour into a large bowl. Slowly pour the hot mixture over it and stir until a sticky dough forms. Let it cool for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the cheese and eggs
After the dough has cooled slightly, stir in the grated cheeses and eggs. Mix until it all comes together into a soft, elastic batter.

Step 5: Shape the dough
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough per bread piece onto your prepared baking tray. If you prefer round balls, lightly oil your hands and roll each portion before placing it on the tray.

Step 6: Bake until golden
Place in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned and puffed.

Step 7: Serve fresh
Once baked, enjoy them right away while they’re still warm and soft in the middle.

Helpful Tips
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results.
Chilling the dough briefly can help if it’s too sticky to handle.
Oil your hands lightly when shaping the dough to prevent sticking.
Do not overmix after adding the eggs, as this may loosen the dough too much.

Details
Flavor: Cheesy and rich, with nutty undertones
Texture: Crispy crust and chewy, stretchy inside
Great for: Appetizers, breakfast, party platters, or light snacking
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yields: 24 small bread balls

Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)
Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or herbs like oregano or rosemary for a twist.
Substitute the cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
Freeze unbaked dough scoops to bake fresh whenever you want.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	102 kcal
Carbohydrates	9 g
Protein	3 g
Fat	6 g
Sugar	1 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Brazilian cheese bread made of?
The recipe calls for tapioca flour, butter, milk, eggs, and cheese—usually a combination of Parmesan and another melty cheese like cheddar.

Why is Brazilian cheese bread naturally gluten-free?
It uses tapioca flour, which is extracted from the cassava root. This flour has no gluten, making it ideal for gluten-sensitive diets.

What type of cheese works best for Brazilian cheese bread?
A mix of sharp Parmesan and smooth-melting cheddar works perfectly. You can also use mozzarella for a softer texture.

Why is Brazilian cheese bread chewy instead of fluffy?
Unlike wheat flour, tapioca flour doesn’t create air pockets the same way. Instead, it provides stretchiness and elasticity, resulting in a satisfying chew.

Storage Instructions
Allow the cheese breads to cool before storing. Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for five days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for five minutes to bring back the texture. You can also freeze uncooked dough portions and bake them straight from frozen with a couple of extra minutes added to the cook time.

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Conclusion
Brazilian cheese bread is the kind of recipe that surprises you with how simple and satisfying it is. The rich cheesy flavor, the chewy bite, and the quick prep make it a household favorite. Whether you’re serving them as snacks, starters, or sides, these golden bites are sure to bring joy. Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they become a go-to recipe for gatherings, weekends, or anytime you need something comforting and easy.

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