Brazilian Cheese Puffs

Brazilian Cheese Puffs, or “Pão de Queijo,” are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Brazilian cuisine. These little bites of cheesy goodness are naturally gluten-free, thanks to their main ingredient: tapioca flour. With a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, they are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish. The rich flavor of Parmesan cheese shines through in every puff, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, Brazilian Cheese Puffs are sure to impress.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks all over the world rave about Brazilian Cheese Puffs for numerous reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. The dough comes together quickly, and the puffs can be baked in just about 20 minutes. Second, the versatility of these puffs makes them a favorite. They can be served fresh out of the oven, frozen for later, or even filled with your favorite ingredients for a twist on the classic. Finally, the flavor is simply out of this world. The combination of tapioca flour and cheese creates a unique texture that is both chewy and crispy, providing a delightful contrast.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up a batch of Brazilian Cheese Puffs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk – This adds richness to the dough.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Provides moisture and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
• 10 oz. (280g) tapioca flour – The star ingredient that gives these puffs their signature chewiness.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese – Offers a savory, cheesy flavor that is essential to the recipe.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
• Whisk – To blend the eggs and liquids together smoothly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing the dough.
• Baking sheet – To bake the cheese puffs.
• Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Oven – Preheated to ensure even baking.

Brazilian Cheese Puffs Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cheese puffs will bake evenly and achieve a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, vegetable oil, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add Tapioca Flour

Gradually add the tapioca flour to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a thick dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Cheese

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once fully incorporated, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Puffs

Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave about an inch of space between each puff, as they will expand while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 7: Enjoy

Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Year-Round Variations

Get creative with your Brazilian Cheese Puffs by trying out these variations:

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Cheese Puffs: Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Mixed Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella.
• Stuffed Puffs: Fill the dough with cooked meats or vegetables before baking.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Brazilian Cheese Puffs is generally straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them:

• Too Dense: If your puffs turn out dense, ensure you measured the ingredients accurately, especially the tapioca flour. Adding too much can lead to a heavy texture.
• Sticky Dough: If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more tapioca flour until it reaches the right consistency.
• Underbaked: If your puffs don’t rise or are doughy in the middle, increase the baking time slightly.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Brazilian Cheese Puffs are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze unbaked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for different flavors.

What if I can’t find tapioca flour?

If tapioca flour is unavailable, you can substitute it with cassava flour, although the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Are Brazilian Cheese Puffs gluten-free?

Yes, Brazilian Cheese Puffs are naturally gluten-free due to the use of tapioca flour.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

No meal is complete without a sweet ending! Consider pairing your Brazilian Cheese Puffs with one of these delightful desserts:

Let’s Eat

Now that you have the recipe and tips for making Brazilian Cheese Puffs, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! The delightful aroma of cheese puffing up in the oven will make your kitchen feel like a warm Brazilian café. These treats are sure to become a staple in your home, whether for a casual snack or a sophisticated gathering. Serve them warm, enjoy their cheesy goodness, and watch them disappear in no time. Happy baking!