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Crunchy Brazilian Cheese Puffs Recipe

Crispy Brazilian Cheese Puffs Recipe


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4.7 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 21 1x

Description

Savory Brazilian cheese puffs bring together tapioca flour, eggs, milk, and cheese in a delightful gluten-free snack. Crisp exterior and chewy center make these pão de queijo irresistible for cheese enthusiasts seeking authentic Brazilian flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 10 oz (280 g) tapioca flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Liquid Preparation: Combine milk, oil, and salt in a medium saucepan, heating to a gentle simmer while stirring intermittently. Remove from heat when substantial bubbles emerge on the liquid’s surface.
  2. Dough Formation: Vigorously mix tapioca flour into the hot liquid using a sturdy utensil until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough develops. Transfer to a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beating at medium speed to achieve a smoother consistency.
  3. Temperature Adjustment: Allow the dough to cool to a comfortable handling temperature, then gradually incorporate eggs, blending thoroughly after each addition to create a uniform, silky texture.
  4. Cheese Integration: Carefully fold cheese into the mixture, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
  5. Portioning and Baking: Scoop uniform dough rounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Position in a preheated oven’s middle rack to promote balanced heat circulation, baking until the cheese puffs transform into golden, puffy morsels with crisp exterior and soft, airy interior (15-20 minutes).
  6. Serving: Remove from the oven and let the Brazilian cheese puffs rest briefly, allowing them to set and develop their signature light, delicate texture before serving warm.

Notes

  • Precise Ingredient Temperature: Allow milk, oil, and eggs to reach room temperature for smoother dough integration and consistent texture.
  • Mixing Technique Matters: Use vigorous stirring when adding tapioca flour to prevent lumps and ensure a uniform, silky dough consistency.
  • Cheese Selection Tip: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan or queijo minas for authentic Brazilian flavor and optimal melting properties.
  • Baking Placement Crucial: Center rack placement guarantees even golden-brown color and prevents burning or uneven puffing of the cheese balls.
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 21
  • Calories: 152
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 66 mg
  • Fat: 10.2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6.3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12.4 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g
  • Protein: 4.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg