Addicted to Cheese
Nolan O'Connor
| 03-06-2025

· Food Team
Hey Lyykers! Let’s talk about a little obsession of mine—Brazilian cheesy bread, also known as pão de queijo. If you've never heard of it, you're in for a treat. If you have... then you already know why I can’t stop making these irresistible little puffs of cheesy goodness.
So, What Is Brazilian Cheesy Bread?
Pão de queijo is a bite-sized bread snack from Brazil that’s soft, chewy, cheesy, and absolutely addictive. Unlike traditional bread, this one uses tapioca flour (also called cassava flour), which gives it that signature chew and makes it completely gluten-free. Pretty cool, right?
Each piece is crisp on the outside, tender inside, and loaded with cheese flavor in every bite. Honestly, they’re like cheesy clouds of joy.
Why I Keep Coming Back for More
Let’s be real—some recipes are great once in a while, but this one has become a regular in my kitchen. Here’s why:
Quick to make– No rising, no proofing, no stress.
Only a few ingredients– Most of which I usually have on hand.
Crowd-pleaser– Whether it’s a snack for myself, brunch with friends, or something to serve with soup, these never last long.
Totally customizable– I’ve tried them with different cheeses, herbs, and even little spice tweaks.
Here's How I Make Them
Wanna try it? You’ll be surprised how easy it is. Here’s my go-to recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 cup milk (I like whole milk)
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (parmesan, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 eggs
How To Make:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, warm the milk, oil, and salt just until it starts bubbling.
3. Pour that hot mix into a bowl with tapioca flour. Stir until you get a sticky dough.
4. Let it cool slightly, then add the eggs and cheese. Mix well.
5. Use a spoon or small scoop to portion the dough onto a lined baking tray.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and puffed.
That’s it! No fancy tools or techniques needed.
Little Tweaks I Love
While the classic version is unbeatable, I’ve had fun experimenting. A dash of garlic powder adds depth, chopped herbs like rosemary or chives bring freshness, and using a smoked cheese like provolone gives it a whole new vibe.
Why You Should Try It (But Don’t Blame Me If You Get Hooked)
These cheesy bites are the kind of thing you make “just to try it” and then suddenly you’re on your third batch that week. They’re comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy. Plus, they freeze really well—so you can bake a bunch, freeze them, and reheat whenever the craving hits.
Trust me, once you’ve had your first warm bite of pão de queijo fresh from the oven, there’s no going back.