Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey to Brazil with JJ's Pão de Queijo, the irresistible cheese puffs that will transport your taste buds to a world of crispy, cheesy perfection! These golden, pillowy delights are not just a snack – they're a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for more. Imagine biting into a light, airy puff with a crisp exterior and a soft, stretchy interior bursting with cheesy goodness – that's the magic of authentic Brazilian cheese puffs!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Brazilian
Serves: 24 cheese puffs
Ingredients
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or Cheddar)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture just begins to simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Remove the milk mixture from heat and immediately add the tapioca flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth, sticky dough forms. The mixture will look slightly lumpy at first but will become more uniform.
- Transfer the hot dough to a stand mixer or large mixing bowl and let it cool for 5-7 minutes until it's no longer steaming.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough will initially look separated but will come together into a smooth, stretchy consistency.
- Fold in the grated cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese puffs are golden brown and puffy, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove from the oven and let the pão de queijo cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. These cheese puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality tapioca flour for the best texture – it's the secret to that signature chewy interior.
- Make sure to mix the eggs thoroughly to create a smooth, stretchy dough that will give your puffs the perfect consistency.
- Don't skip letting the dough cool slightly before adding eggs – this helps prevent scrambling and ensures a smooth mixture.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese varieties like aged Parmesan or sharp Cheddar.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized puffs that cook evenly and look professionally made.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture – these puffs are at their absolute prime when fresh out of the oven.
- If you have leftovers, reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior and warm, cheesy interior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
