I’m thrilled to share my go-to authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe with you, perfect for any family meal! These irresistible Pão de Queijo rolls offer crispy edges and a delightfully creamy, cheesy center, making them an instant hit for busy families. Naturally gluten-free and packed with flavor, they transform simple ingredients into a special, comforting treat that fits into even the busiest weeknight schedule.
Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Gathering the right components is key to perfectly chewy and flavorful authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe. Here’s what you’ll need, with notes for purpose and simple swaps:
- Tapioca Starch (Polvilho Doce or Sour Tapioca Flour): 500 g (4 cups). Purpose: Essential for the signature light, chewy, and airy interior that defines Pão de Queijo.
- Whole Milk: 240 ml (1 cup). Purpose: Hydrates the starch, creating a pliable dough. (You can use 2% milk or even unsweetened plant-based milk if that’s what you have for a dairy-free option).
- Vegetable Oil: 120 ml (1/2 cup). Purpose: Adds richness to the dough and helps achieve a golden, slightly crisp exterior. (Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil works well).
- Medium Garlic Cloves: 4-5, unpeeled. Purpose: Roasting brings out a mellow, sweet garlic flavor that adds depth to this savory snack.
- Smoked Paprika: 5 g (1 teaspoon), plus more for garnish. Purpose: Imparts a beautiful smoky aroma and a hint of warmth, enhancing the cheesy flavor profile.
- Fine Sea Salt: 7 g (1 1/4 teaspoons). Purpose: Balances the flavors and brings out the best in the cheese and garlic.
- Large Eggs: 2, at room temperature. Purpose: Binds the ingredients, adding structure and helping the rolls puff up during baking.
- Grated Parmesan-style Cheese: 120 g (1 cup). Purpose: Provides a sharp, savory foundation for the cheesy goodness. Look for microbial rennet varieties if needed.
- Grated Mozzarella: 120 g (1 cup). Purpose: Contributes to the incredible melt and gooey texture inside. (Provolone is a great alternative for a slightly sharper taste).
- Finely Chopped Fresh Chives: 2 tablespoons, for garnish. Purpose: Adds a fresh, oniony note and a vibrant splash of color to the finished bread.
Premium Picks
For the deepest flavor in your authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe, I suggest using freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded. Consider a blend of an aged Parmesan with a sharp cheddar for an even more complex, robust cheesy experience.
Dietary Swaps
This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to tapioca starch, making it a fantastic option for various diets. For a dairy-free version, swap whole milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative, ensuring it melts well for a similar texture.
Seasonal Shopping Notes
Tapioca starch, also known as polvilho doce, is readily available in most large grocery stores in the baking or international aisle. For a wider selection or specialty varieties, check local ethnic markets or order online for convenient delivery, supporting your family-friendly meal prep.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Whipping up this authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for perfect, puffy results every time:
- Roast the Garlic & Preheat: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the unpeeled garlic cloves on a small piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with a tiny bit of vegetable oil, and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they feel very soft when squeezed. Remove and let cool slightly, then peel and mash into a smooth paste. This initial roast brings a lovely mellow flavor.
- Simmer Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch for small bubbles to just start forming around the edges before removing it from the heat.
- Infuse Flavors & Scald Starch: Add 3/4 of your mashed roasted garlic (reserving the rest for later) and the smoked paprika to the hot milk mixture. Stir well to combine and let steep for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. Place the tapioca starch in a large heatproof bowl, then pour the hot infused milk mixture over it. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until all the starch is moistened and a lumpy, thick paste forms; this step is crucial for developing the characteristic chewy texture.
- Cool the Paste: Allow the tapioca paste to cool for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warm to the touch but no longer hot. This cooling period is vital to prevent the eggs from scrambling when added later.
- Add Eggs & Mix Dough: One at a time, crack in the large eggs, beating vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated and the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If your dough seems too stiff to mix, ensure your eggs were at room temperature; cold eggs can make it harder to come together initially. Keep mixing; it will eventually smooth out.
- Incorporate Cheeses & Garlic: Stir in the grated Parmesan-style cheese, mozzarella, and the reserved 1/4 of the mashed roasted garlic until they are evenly distributed throughout the smooth, sticky dough. This ensures cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Form the Rolls: Using lightly oiled hands or two spoons, scoop portions of the dough (about 30g or 1.5 tablespoons each) and roll them into smooth, golf-ball sized balls. Place them about 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart on a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese breads are golden brown, beautifully puffed, and slightly crispy on the outside. They will feel light and airy. Arrange the warm cheese breads on a rustic platter, dust with an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color, and scatter fresh chives. Serve immediately for best enjoyment as part of your family dinners.
Optional Shortcuts for Speed
For quicker mixing once the hot liquid is added to the tapioca starch, I often use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. This saves a lot of arm work! You can also freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight bag for quick baking later, perfect for easy meal prep recipes.
Inline Variations
To deepen the savory profile of your authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe, try adding a pinch of dried oregano or a tiny amount of onion powder along with the smoked paprika. You could also swap out some Parmesan for a sharp provolone to change the cheese dynamics slightly.
Best Times to Make and Share
These authentic Brazilian cheese bread rolls are perfect for almost any time! Enjoy them as a quick, satisfying breakfast or brunch item, a school lunchbox treat, a tasty appetizer for gatherings, or a delightful side for weeknight dinners.
Serving Inspiration
Serve warm alongside a hearty soup, with a fresh salad, or simply with a cup of coffee. Try them with a dollop of cream cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elevated touch.
Storage Advice
Store baked authentic Brazilian cheese bread in an airtight container: up to 2 days at room temperature, or 4 days in the fridge. Reheat briefly in oven or microwave. Freeze unbaked dough balls up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen, adding extra time until golden.
Why Authentic Brazilian Cheese Bread Fits Healthy & Modern Lifestyles
This authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe naturally supports a balanced diet and busy modern life.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for gluten avoidance, thanks to tapioca flour.
- Protein Boost: Cheese and eggs offer a satisfying high-protein snack.
- Family Favorite: Kids love this side dish, simplifying family-friendly dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Freeze dough for easy future meals or quick snacks.
- Wholesome & Customizable: Real ingredients, easily adaptable for health goals.
Everyday Benefits Beyond the Kitchen
Beyond delicious taste, this authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe offers real-life advantages for a modern lifestyle.
- Convenience: Quick prep, make-ahead options for busy schedules and quick meals.
- Affordability: Budget-friendly ingredients make healthy eating accessible.
- Balance: A satisfying treat fitting various dietary needs, promoting wellness.
Kitchen Secrets & Adjustments
Unlock the best results for your authentic Brazilian cheese bread with these kitchen secrets.
- Maximizing Flavor: Use freshly grated cheese. I sometimes add smoked provolone for extra depth!
- Presentation: Serve immediately when warm; fresh parsley adds color.
- Picky Eaters & Kids: Make small rolls; kids love dipping, great for family dinners.
- Allergy-Conscious Swaps: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
FAQs About Authentic Brazilian Cheese Bread
Is authentic Brazilian cheese bread good for weight-conscious diets?
It can be! Made with wholesome ingredients, you can control portions and choose lower-fat cheese options to fit your dietary goals. Enjoying a small serving as part of a balanced diet works wonderfully.
Where can I order tapioca flour online?
Tapioca flour (polvilho doce) is widely available on major online grocery retailers and specialty food sites. Look for brands that specify ‘sweet’ or ‘sour’ tapioca flour; ‘sweet’ is preferred for this authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe.
Can I prep authentic Brazilian cheese bread ahead of time for busy weeks?
Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the dough balls for up to two months, baking them fresh whenever you need a quick snack or side. This makes it an ideal choice for meal prep recipes, saving you time during busy weeknights.
What kind of cheese is best for Pão de Queijo?
While Parmesan is common, a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and a touch of cheddar yields a wonderfully complex flavor and melt. I find a good quality aged Parmesan really makes a difference here for a deeper savory note.
Is this recipe truly an authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe?
Yes, this recipe closely follows the traditional method for Pão de Queijo, using tapioca flour for that classic chewy texture. It captures the true essence of an authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe, just like you’d find in Brazil.
How long does authentic Brazilian cheese bread stay fresh?
Baked authentic Brazilian cheese bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 2 days at room temperature or 4 days in the fridge in an airtight container. For reheating, a few minutes in a toaster oven or regular oven brings back its lovely texture.
Can I make authentic Brazilian cheese bread without eggs?
Eggs contribute significantly to the structure and fluffiness of these rolls. While possible with commercial egg substitutes, the texture may vary slightly, becoming denser. For best results, sticking to eggs is recommended for an authentic outcome.
Conclusion
This authentic Brazilian cheese bread recipe brings a taste of Brazil right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Save this naturally gluten-free, family-friendly recipe to your Pinterest board for quick, delicious meal ideas!
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authentic brazilian cheese bread recipe
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 25–30 rolls 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
This recipe provides an authentic Brazilian cheese bread (Pao de Queijo) that is naturally gluten-free, featuring crispy edges and a creamy, cheesy center, perfect for family meals or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 500 g tapioca starch (polvilho doce or sour tapioca flour)
- 240 ml whole milk
- 120 ml vegetable oil
- 4–5 medium garlic cloves, unpeeled
- 5 g smoked paprika, plus more for garnish
- 7 g fine sea salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 120 g grated Parmesan-style cheese
- 120 g grated mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Roast Garlic & Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees C (400 degrees F). Place unpeeled garlic cloves on aluminum foil, drizzle with a tiny bit of vegetable oil, and roast for 15-20 minutes until soft. Remove, cool slightly, then peel and mash into a smooth paste.
- Simmer Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form around the edges.
- Infuse Flavors & Scald Starch: Add 3/4 of the mashed roasted garlic (reserving the rest) and smoked paprika to the hot milk mixture. Stir well and let steep for 5 minutes. Place tapioca starch in a large heatproof bowl, then pour the hot infused milk mixture over it. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or spatula until all starch is moistened and a lumpy, thick paste forms.
- Cool the Paste: Allow the tapioca paste to cool for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warm to the touch but no longer hot.
- Add Eggs & Mix Dough: One at a time, crack in the large eggs, beating vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated and the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate Cheeses & Garlic: Stir in the grated Parmesan-style cheese, mozzarella, and the reserved 1/4 of the mashed roasted garlic until evenly distributed throughout the smooth, sticky dough.
- Form the Rolls: Using lightly oiled hands or two spoons, scoop about 30g (1.5 tablespoons) of dough and roll into smooth, golf-ball sized balls. Place them about 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese breads are golden brown, puffed, and slightly crispy. Arrange warm cheese breads on a platter, dust with extra smoked paprika, and scatter fresh chives. Serve immediately.
Notes
For quicker mixing, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment once hot liquid is added to the tapioca starch. Unbaked dough balls can be frozen for later baking. Store leftover Pao de Queijo in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a toaster oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
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