Brazilian Pão de Queijo (Cheesy Bread)
Learn to make delicious Brazilian Pão de Queijo, a delightful cheesy bread that's perfect as a snack or appetizer. This recipe yields a soft, chewy interior with a slightly crisp exterior.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Pão de Queijo
- 1 cup Milk whole or 2%
- 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil or other neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Tapioca Flour sweet/polvilho doce
- 1-2 large Eggs
- 1.5 cups Shredded Cheese Parmesan, Mozzarella, or a mix of mild cheeses
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, oil, and salt, then bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat before removing from heat.
- In a large bowl, pour the hot milk mixture over the tapioca flour and stir vigorously until a shaggy, lumpy dough forms.
- Allow the dough to cool for 5-10 minutes until it is warm but safe to handle.
- Crack in one egg and mix well; gradually add the second egg until the dough is sticky but pliable, then stir in the shredded cheese.
- Lightly oil your hands, then roll small portions of dough (1-1.5 inches) into smooth balls and place them an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Pão de Queijo are puffed, golden brown, and slightly firm.
- For the best experience, enjoy your Pão de Queijo fresh out of the oven.
Notes
The amount of egg needed can vary based on the humidity and brand of tapioca flour, so add the second egg gradually until the desired consistency is reached. For extra flavor, experiment with different types of cheese or add a pinch of garlic powder to the dough. Pão de Queijo is best enjoyed warm and fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven for a few minutes.