Description
Brazilian Cheese Puffs, known as pão de queijo, are delightful gluten-free appetizers featuring a chewy, cheesy dough made from tapioca flour and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked until puffed and lightly golden, these warm, bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties or a tasty savory treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Dry Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups tapioca flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Eggs and Cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Heat milk, butter, and salt: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and the mixture reaches a simmer.
- Add tapioca flour: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the tapioca flour until the mixture is smooth with no lumps. This creates the base dough.
- Cool and incorporate eggs: Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes to prevent cooking the eggs. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. This step emulsifies and binds the dough.
- Mix in cheeses and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and garlic powder if using, forming a sticky, thick dough ready to shape.
- Shape and bake: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of dough about 1 1/2 inches wide onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them roughly 2 inches apart to allow for puffing.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese puffs are puffed up and lightly golden on the outside.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. They can be reheated later to regain crispness.
Notes
- For extra cheesy flavor, substitute some Parmesan with sharp cheddar cheese.
- These cheese puffs are best served fresh for optimal texture and taste.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispiness.
