Classic Brazilian Cheese Puffs (Pão de Queijo)

Enjoy the authentic taste of Brazil with these gooey and delicious cheese-filled bread rolls. A perfect snack or appetizer, easy to prepare and made with ingredients available in most local grocery stores.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 30 cheese puffs

Full Ingredient List

  • 4 cups tapioca flour
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 6 tablespoons oil
  • 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Cheese Bread Mixture

Tools and Equipment

  • saucepan
  • stand mixer
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • oven

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
4 cups tapioca flour manioc starch
1 1/4 cups milk soy milk
1/2 cup water
6 tablespoons oil butter
1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese grated pecorino
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese cheddar cheese
2 large eggs flax eggs
2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the middle (Tips: Ensures even baking.)
  2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine the milk, water, oil, and salt, bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. (Tips: Stir to prevent sticking.)
  3. Step 3: Add the tapioca flour to the stand mixer's bowl. Once the liquid mixture boils, pour it over the flour and mix until you get a fondant-like texture. (Tips: Work quickly to incorporate.)
  4. Step 4: With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. (Tips: Patience is key as the flour mixture is sticky.)
  5. Step 5: Gradually add the cheeses until fully incorporated into the dough. (Tips: Do not rush to avoid lumps.)
  6. Step 6: Check the dough consistency. It should be soft and sticky. Adjust with more tapioca flour if necessary but avoid making it too dry. (Tips: Aim for a slightly sticky dough for that gooey result.)
  7. Step 7: Wet your hands with cold water, scoop dough using a spoon, and shape into balls slightly smaller than a golf ball. (Tips: Use cold water to minimize sticking.)
  8. Step 8: Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (Tips: Leave space between each for expansion.)
  9. Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden and have risen. (Tips: Serve immediately for the best flavor.)

Additional Information

Notes: These cheese puffs freeze well. Form into balls and freeze raw. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Tags

Appetizer Brazilian Snack Vegetarian