Brazilian Cheese Bread

Name: Brazilian Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (180g) tapioca flour (also known as tapioca starch); 1/2 tsp salt; 2/3 cup (155ml) whole milk; 1/4 cup (60ml) avocado oil or olive oil; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup finely shredded (56g) medium or sharp cheddar (white or yellow); 1/3 cup finely shredded (28g) grana padano or parmesan cheese

By:

Marry

Published:

August 5, 2026

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Brazilian Cheese Bread, or “Pão de Queijo,” is a delightful treat originating from Brazil, known for its chewy texture and cheesy flavor. These small, puffy bread balls are hard to resist, especially when they come out of the oven, hot and fragrant. The crispy exterior gives way to an airy, chewy center filled with gooey cheese, making each bite a pure joy. If you’re a cheese lover, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

I discovered Brazilian Cheese Bread during a friend’s gathering, and it was an instant hit. The warm, cheesy aroma wafting from the oven made everyone’s mouths water. I remember eagerly waiting for them to cool slightly before diving into that first pillowy bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy snack, a delicious breakfast option, or something to impress guests, this simple recipe delivers every time. Trust me when I say these treats will transport you to the streets of Brazil with each bite. Get ready to fall in love with this crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and about 35 minutes to bake, you’ll have fresh cheese bread in no time!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cheddar and Grana Padano creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to beat.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These golden-brown cheese puffs are as fun to look at as they are to eat, perfect for parties or gatherings.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or serve them at your next brunch; they’re versatile and loved by all.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and adaptable if you want to experiment with different cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 cups tapioca flour (180g): This gluten-free flour gives Brazilian Cheese Bread its characteristic chewy texture. You can substitute it with another gluten-free flour blend if needed, but the texture may vary.
1/2 tsp salt: A little salt enhances the flavors of the cheese and dough.
2/3 cup whole milk (155ml): Whole milk adds richness; you could use dairy alternatives, but the flavor may change slightly.
1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil (60ml): The oil helps create a moist texture. Feel free to swap in melted butter for a richer flavor.
1 large egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and contributes to the fluffiness of the cheese puffs.
1/2 cup finely shredded medium or sharp cheddar cheese (56g): Cheddar adds a wonderful flavor. Mix it up with your favorite cheeses!
1/3 cup finely shredded Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese (28g): This adds a nutty, salty flavor that elevates the dish. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano if needed.

How to Make Brazilian Cheese Bread

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large heatproof mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of tapioca flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Heat Milk and Oil: In a saucepan, bring 2/3 cup of whole milk and 1/4 cup of avocado oil (or olive oil) to a gentle simmer. It should be hot, but not boiling. Once ready, pour this mixture into the bowl with the tapioca flour and salt.
Combine Ingredients: Stir the hot milk and oil mixture into the flour with a wooden spoon until everything is well combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy; it will come together. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.
Add the Egg and Cheese: Mix in 1 large egg using your spoon or an electric mixer. Once incorporated, fold in 1/2 cup of finely shredded cheddar cheese and 1/3 cup of Grana Padano (or Parmesan cheese). The dough will be tacky, yet able to hold its shape.
Scoop and Shape: Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop, or just two spoons, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each ball about 1 1/2 inches apart. You’ll get around 15 small balls.
Bake: Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The cheese bread is done when the outer layer is golden brown and crisp while the center remains beautifully chewy and cheesy.

Storing & Reheating

Once your Brazilian Cheese Bread has cooled, store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to four days. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5–10 minutes, until they’re warm and the outside is crisp again. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly after freezing, but they’ll still taste incredible!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the egg, as this can make the texture denser.
Ensure your milk and oil mixture is hot enough to help activate the tapioca flour; this is key for achieving that desired chewiness.
Have fun experimenting with different cheese combinations; try adding a hint of spice with pepper jack or a fresh herb for a unique twist.
For consistently shaped balls, use a cookie scoop – it makes the process quicker, and they all bake evenly.
If the dough is too runny, add a touch more tapioca flour; if too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the right consistency.

Nothing beats pulling a batch of warm Brazilian Cheese Bread from the oven, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma. This recipe encapsulates everything you love about a warm, cheesy snack and is enjoyable for all ages. Its simplicity makes it a fantastic option for busy weekends or lazy weekday afternoons. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about making fresh bread at home. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself; you won’t regret it!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Brazilian Cheese Bread in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and bake straight from the fridge. This can save you time, especially when hosting!

What can I substitute for tapioca flour?

While tapioca flour is the star of this recipe, if you don’t have any on hand, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, the texture might differ since tapioca flour provides that signature chewy quality.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

Look for a beautiful golden-brown color on the outside, and a slight puffing up of the balls. They should feel crisp to the touch. You can also do a light tap; a hollow sound usually indicates that they’re baked through!

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape the balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake them, you can bake them straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time!