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Pão de Queijo Brazilian Cheese Bread

Pão de Queijo Brazilian Cheese Bread

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Pão de Queijo is a Brazilian cheese bread known for its crispy edges and chewy, airy center created by tapioca flour and sharp Parmesan. The boiling of milk, water, and oil activates the starch, producing puffed, golden rolls with no kneading or rising time. This one-bowl recipe is perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or sides that impress without fuss.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 16 pieces
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Brazilian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups tapioca flour also called tapioca starch
  • 0.5 cup milk whole milk preferred
  • 0.25 cup water adds thinness for easier scooping
  • 0.25 cup oil neutral oil like vegetable or canola
  • 1 teaspoon salt balances the sharp cheese
  • 2 large eggs room temperature preferred
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese aged, grated

Equipment

  • Saucepan To boil milk, water, oil, and salt
  • Large mixing bowl For combining flour and liquid
  • Wooden spoon For vigorous stirring of dough
  • Ice cream scoop To portion dough balls uniformly
  • Baking sheet To bake shaped dough balls
  • Wire rack To cool rolls after baking

Method
 

  1. Combine milk, water, oil, and salt in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a full rolling boil, about 3-4 minutes.
    0.5 cup milk, 0.25 cup water, 0.25 cup oil, 1 tsp salt
  2. Pour the boiling liquid immediately over the tapioca flour in a large mixing bowl. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until dough forms and no dry flour remains.
    2 cups tapioca flour
  3. Let dough rest 10 minutes at room temperature, stirring occasionally to release steam. Dough should be warm but not hot (around 120-130°F).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, stirring after each addition until smooth. Then add grated Parmesan and mix 1-2 minutes until completely incorporated and uniform with no lumps.
    2 large eggs, 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F. Use a 1.5 tablespoon ice cream scoop to portion dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing balls 2 inches apart. Wet hands lightly if dough sticks.
  6. Bake 20-25 minutes on the lower oven rack until rolls puff, become lightly golden, and feel firm to touch. Let cool on a wire rack 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Bring liquids to a full rolling boil before adding tapioca flour to ensure proper gelatinization.
  • Add eggs gradually and stir vigorously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth dough.
  • Use aged Parmesan freshly grated for best melting and flavor.

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