Brazilian Cheese Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a baking time of 15 to 20 minutes, you can enjoy these cheese breads in under half an hour.
• Gluten-Free: Made with tapioca flour, they’re perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
• Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with spicy salsa, or as a side to your favorite soup or salad.
• Kid-Friendly: Their cheesy flavor and fun, popover-like texture make them a hit with children.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Tapioca flour
• Milk (room temperature)
• Vegetable oil
• Large egg (room temperature)
• Salt
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Batter: In a blender or food processor, combine tapioca flour, milk, oil, salt, and egg. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Cheese: Incorporate the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses into the batter, pulsing a few times to mix.
4. Fill Muffin Pan: Grease a mini muffin pan and fill each cup halfway with the batter.
5. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the breads are crusty on the outside and lightly browned.
6. Serve: Allow to cool for a couple of minutes, then remove from the pan and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 18 mini cheese breads.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes.
• Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes.
• Total Time: 20 to 25 minutes.

Variations

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, or a combination to alter the flavor profile.
• Herbs and Spices: Add herbs such as rosemary or spices like garlic powder to the batter for an extra kick.
• Mini Sandwiches: Slice them open and fill with ham, turkey, or your preferred deli meats for a mini sandwich experience.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

What is Pão de Queijo?

Pão de Queijo is a traditional Brazilian cheese bread made from tapioca flour, cheese, milk, and eggs, known for its chewy texture and cheesy flavor.

 

Is Pão de Queijo gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free due to the use of tapioca flour instead of wheat flour.

 

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, or a blend to suit your taste preferences.

How should I store leftover Pão de Queijo?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day or refrigerate for up to a week.

 

How do I reheat them?

Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.

 

Can I freeze the batter?

Yes, you can freeze the batter in the muffin pan until solid, then transfer the frozen batter cups to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Pão de Queijo?

They pair well with soups, stews, or can be enjoyed with dips like spicy salsa.

Why is tapioca flour used in this recipe?

Tapioca flour gives Pão de Queijo its distinctive chewy texture and makes it gluten-free.

 

Can I make larger versions instead of mini ones?

While traditionally made as mini rolls, you can use a standard muffin pan for larger versions; just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Is there a vegan version of Pão de Queijo?

Traditional Pão de Queijo contains dairy and eggs, but there are vegan adaptations available that use alternatives like vegan cheese and egg substitutes.

Conclusion

Pão de Queijo is a versatile and delightful addition to any meal. Its quick preparation and baking time make it an excellent choice for spontaneous baking. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite accompaniments, this Brazilian cheese bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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