Name: Brazilian Cheese Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Tapioca Flour; ½ cup Unsalted Butter; ⅔ cup Whole Milk; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese; ½ cup Grated White Cheddar Cheese; 2 Eggs

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There’s something truly special about making Brazilian Cheese Bread at home. The first time I tried them at a cozy café, I couldn’t get enough of their warm, cheesy goodness. The delightful aroma wafting through the air, combined with the golden-brown crust and a soft, chewy interior, made my taste buds dance with joy. I knew I had to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients, I felt a wave of excitement and nostalgia wash over me. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a little slice of Brazil that brings comfort and happiness to any gathering.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
42 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Grater

Why You’ll Love This Brazilian Cheese Bread

Cheesy Goodness

One of the main reasons I adore Brazilian Cheese Bread is the cheesy flavor that permeates every bite. The combination of freshly grated parmesan and white cheddar creates a rich and savory experience. It’s hard to resist the temptation to pop one in my mouth as they come out of the oven!

Gluten-Free Delight

Another fantastic aspect of this recipe is that it’s naturally gluten-free. Using tapioca flour instead of wheat flour means that everyone can enjoy these delightful bites. It’s always a joy to have a recipe that caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family gathering, or simply craving a snack, Brazilian Cheese Bread fits the bill perfectly. They’re great as appetizers, side dishes, or even a tasty breakfast treat. Their versatility is one of the many reasons I love making them!

Simple Preparation

Making these cheese puffs is surprisingly simple. The process is straightforward, and each step builds up the anticipation for that cheesy goodness. I appreciate recipes that don’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. With just a few steps, you can have a batch of these delicious bites ready in no time.

Fun to Share

Last but not least, Brazilian Cheese Bread is a dish meant to be shared. There’s something magical about gathering around with friends and family, munching on these delightful treats together. The joy of sharing food brings people closer, and this recipe is a perfect addition to any table.

Recipe Ingredients for Brazilian Cheese Bread

When it comes to the ingredients for Brazilian Cheese Bread, simplicity is key. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that beloved texture and flavor. The star ingredient, tapioca flour, gives these bread bites their signature chewiness, while the blend of cheeses ensures every mouthful is packed with savory goodness.

2 Cups Tapioca Flour – This unique flour provides the delightful chewy texture that makes these cheese breads so special.
½ Cup Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor, creating a tender crumb.
⅔ Cup Whole Milk – Balances the dough consistency, ensuring a moist outcome.
1 Teaspoon Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cheese bread.
1 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides a nutty, sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
½ Cup Grated White Cheddar Cheese – Adds a creamy texture and additional depth of flavor.
2 Eggs – Binds the ingredients together, contributing to the bread’s structure.

Putting Together Brazilian Cheese Bread

Getting started with Brazilian Cheese Bread is a breeze! Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of cheesy goodness. The process is not only simple but also rewarding as you watch the dough transform into delightful, golden puffs.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. A hot oven is essential for achieving that crisp outer layer while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
Gather a large bowl and add tapioca flour. Set it aside for later. This flour is the backbone of the recipe, so make sure it’s ready!
In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter, whole milk, and salt. Heat the mixture over high heat until it comes to a boil.
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the hot liquid over the tapioca flour. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth. You can use a spatula or a wooden spoon for this step.
Set the dough aside and allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period helps to hydrate the flour fully.
After resting, it’s time to add the flavors! Mix in the parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and eggs. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, but that’s exactly what you want.
Prepare a baking sheet or a greased muffin tin. If you prefer perfectly round cheese puffs, you can grease your hands with oil and gently roll the dough into balls.
Drop generous 1.5 tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the baking sheet or into the muffin tin. The spacing should allow them to rise and expand during baking.
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown on top.
Once they’re out of the oven, serve them warm for the best experience. The aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to dig in!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for the full 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for the texture; it helps the flour to absorb moisture.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Mixing in gouda or even a bit of feta can add interesting flavors.
Baking Sheet Prep: Make sure your baking sheet is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days.

Helpful Hints

Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and here are some helpful hints to ensure your Brazilian Cheese Bread turns out perfectly.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Freezing: These cheese breads freeze wonderfully! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Pairing: Serve alongside your favorite soup or salad for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers at gatherings.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough, be careful not to overmix. A gentle stir is all you need to incorporate the ingredients without making the dough tough.
Experiment with Shapes: Feel free to shape the cheese bread into different forms! Use a muffin tin for puffs, or roll them into balls for bite-sized treats.

Serving This Brazilian Cheese Bread

When it comes to serving Brazilian Cheese Bread, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ways to present these cheesy bites.

As an Appetizer: Serve warm at your next gathering as a delicious appetizer. A platter filled with these golden puffs will certainly impress your guests.
Pair with Soups: They pair wonderfully with creamy soups, adding a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Perfect for Breakfast: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for breakfast. They’re light, fluffy, and full of cheesy goodness to kickstart your day.
Snack Time: Keep some on hand for a quick snack. They’re perfect for those mid-afternoon cravings!
Family Gatherings: Bring them to potlucks or family gatherings where everyone can share and enjoy.
Seasonal Occasions: These cheese breads can be a hit during holidays or festive occasions, bringing a taste of Brazil to your celebrations.

FAQ

Brazilian Cheese Bread, known as Pão de Queijo, is a traditional Brazilian snack made from tapioca flour and cheese. These delightful cheese puffs are naturally gluten-free and are loved for their chewy texture and cheesy flavor. They are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer, snack, or side dish!

Yes, you can easily freeze Brazilian Cheese Bread. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

While traditional recipes call for Parmesan and white cheddar, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses! Gouda, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can provide delicious variations that cater to your taste. Just ensure the cheese is finely grated for smooth incorporation into the dough.

Brazilian Cheese Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Reheat in the oven to restore their delightful texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The unique combination of textures and flavors in Brazilian Cheese Bread makes it a standout recipe that everyone will love. With its crispy exterior and warm, cheesy interior, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these at home and experience the joy they bring to your meals. You won’t regret it!