Fluffy Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo): A Delicious Gluten-Free Treat

Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, is a delightful and irresistible gluten-free snack that hails from Brazil. These small, round cheese puffs are known for their crispy exterior and irresistibly fluffy, chewy interior. Made primarily with tapioca flour and cheese, they offer a unique texture and flavor that will leave you craving more. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as an accompaniment to your favorite meal.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups tapioca flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Heat the milk and butter: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

3. Mix in the tapioca flour: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the tapioca flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes together and forms a thick dough.

4. Cool the dough: Transfer the dough to a large bowl and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow it to be more manageable when you add the eggs and cheese.

5. Add the cheese and eggs: Once the dough has cooled slightly, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough is smooth and sticky.

6. Form the balls: Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the dough into golf ball-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese bread is puffed up and lightly golden on top.

8. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Pão de Queijo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until warm. Enjoy your fluffy and cheesy Brazilian treat!