Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy roll that's soft on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside. That's exactly what we experience with Pão de Queijo, the famous Brazilian cheese bread rolls.

These small, round treats come from Minas Gerais, a southeastern state of Brazil known for its rich culinary traditions.

They have been enjoyed since the 18th century, originally made with tapioca flour from cassava roots before cheese and milk were added. Today, Pão de Queijo is loved across Brazil and around the world for its chewy center and satisfying texture.

What Makes Pão de Queijo Special

We love Pão de Queijo because baking them is as enjoyable as eating them. The aroma fills the kitchen and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The dough puffs up into golden, round rolls, with a chewy interior and a hint of cheese in every bite.

The key to authentic flavor is Brazilian cheese like queijo minas, but fresh cow's milk cheese works equally well. Combining cheese, milk, butter, and tapioca flour gives the rolls their unique elasticity and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients for Our Rolls

Here's everything we need to make approximately 20–24 small cheese rolls:

- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk

- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil

- 8 tablespoons (115g) butter, melted

- 4 1/4 cups (340g) tapioca flour

- 4 large eggs

- 2 cups (200g) grated farmer’s cheese or any fresh cow’s milk cheese

- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- Optional: 1/4 cup (25g) grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Heat Liquid Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine:

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1/2 cup vegetable oil

- 8 tablespoons melted butter

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Heat over medium until the mixture begins to boil. Remove from heat immediately when it starts boiling.

Step 3: Mix in Tapioca Flour

Add 4 1/4 cups tapioca flour to the hot milk mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until it becomes a sticky, smooth dough. The heat helps the tapioca absorb the liquid, giving it elasticity.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Cheese

Let the dough cool slightly for 5 minutes so it’s easier to handle. Then add, one by one, the 4 eggs, mixing well after each addition. Fold in 2 cups grated cheese (and optional 1/4 cup cheddar) until evenly combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but elastic.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rest

Allow the dough to rest for 15–30 minutes. You can place it in the fridge for 15 minutes. This step makes it easier to shape the rolls and helps the texture during baking.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Lightly dust your hands with tapioca flour. Take small portions of dough and roll them into golf ball-sized balls (about 1.5 inches/4 cm diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. In the final 5–10 minutes, the rolls will puff up and develop a light golden color. Avoid opening the oven too early to ensure they rise properly.

Step 8: Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm for the best chewy, cheesy experience. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack with coffee, or as a side to any meal.

Tips for the Best Rolls

- Use fresh cheese for a more authentic flavor.

- Do not overmix the dough after adding eggs to preserve the airy texture.

- Pão de Queijo is best eaten warm; leftover rolls can be reheated in the oven to regain freshness.

- You can experiment with adding herbs or spices like paprika or oregano for a creative twist.

Enjoy the Moment

Making Pão de Queijo isn't just about baking—it's about enjoying a little piece of Brazil in our kitchen. From warming the milk to seeing the rolls puff up and turn golden, every step brings its own fun. Following this recipe, we can enjoy the chewy, cheesy rolls of Minas Gerais anytime.

Let's take pleasure in both the process and the taste, sharing this comforting treat with family and friends.