Cheesy Pão de Queijo Bites
Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread originating from the picturesque state of Minas Gerais, celebrated for its chewy texture and delightful cheesy flavor. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Brazil right to your kitchen using manioc starch, also known as tapioca flour, which gives the bread its unique characteristic. These delightful bites are typically served warm, fresh from the oven, and are a staple in Brazilian steakhouses. They are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer at gatherings. Made with a combination of cheese that delivers an irresistible flavor and texture, these addictive treats are sure to impress your friends and family!
N/A
Servings
280
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
manioc starch (polvilho)
16 ounces (none)
sunflower oil
1/2 cup (none)
low-fat milk
3/4 cup (none)
eggs, large
3 (crack and beat lightly)
parmesan cheese, grated
1/3 cup (none)
mild cheddar cheese, grated
1 3/4 cups (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a small saucepan, combine the low-fat milk and sunflower oil, and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the hot mixture over the manioc starch in a mixing bowl.
4
Stir the mixture until well combined, then let it cool for a few minutes until it's warm but not hot to the touch.
5
Crack the eggs into the bowl, one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated.
6
Add the grated Parmesan and cheddar cheese to the mixture, blending well until everything is evenly mixed.
7
With oiled hands, take portions of the dough about the size of a walnut or small plum, and roll them into smooth balls.
8
Place the rounded dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for rising.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bites are puffed and lightly golden.
10
Remove from oven and serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
19g
Fat
20g
Carbs
9g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pão de Queijo?
Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread originating from the state of Minas Gerais, celebrated for its chewy texture and cheesy flavor.
Where does Pão de Queijo originate from?
This traditional cheese bread originates from the picturesque state of Minas Gerais in Brazil.
What is the main starch used in this recipe?
The recipe uses manioc starch, also known as tapioca flour, which gives the bread its unique chewy characteristic.
Are Cheesy Pão de Queijo Bites gluten-free?
Yes, they are gluten-free as they are made with manioc starch instead of wheat flour.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the cheese bites.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the bites do not stick.
What liquids are used to start the dough?
The dough begins by combining 3/4 cup of low-fat milk and 1/2 cup of sunflower oil.
How do I mix the hot liquid with the starch?
Bring the milk and oil to a gentle boil, then carefully pour the hot mixture over the manioc starch and stir until well combined.
When should I add the eggs to the mixture?
Wait until the starch and milk mixture has cooled for a few minutes and is warm but not hot to the touch before adding eggs.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
You will need 3 large eggs, which should be cracked and lightly beaten.
How do I incorporate the eggs into the dough?
Add the eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated.
What types of cheese are used for these bites?
This recipe uses a combination of 1/3 cup grated Parmesan and 1 3/4 cups of grated mild cheddar cheese.
How do I shape the dough?
With oiled hands, take portions of the dough and roll them into smooth balls.
What size should the dough balls be?
The dough balls should be approximately the size of a walnut or a small plum.
How should the balls be placed on the baking sheet?
Place them on the parchment-lined sheet spaced apart to allow for rising during baking.
How long do the Cheesy Pão de Queijo Bites need to bake?
Bake them in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
How can I tell when the bites are done?
The cheese bites are ready when they are puffed and lightly golden.
What is the best way to serve these cheese bites?
They are best served warm, fresh from the oven, for the ultimate texture and flavor experience.
Are these suitable for appetizers?
Absolutely, they are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer for gatherings and parties.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 280 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 19 grams of fat per serving.
What is the protein content of these bites?
Each serving provides 9 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for sunflower oil.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: manioc starch, sunflower oil, low-fat milk, eggs, parmesan cheese, and mild cheddar cheese.
Where might you commonly find these in Brazil?
Pão de Queijo is a staple in Brazilian steakhouses across the country.
Can I use a different type of milk?
The recipe specifies low-fat milk, but you can likely substitute with other types of milk though the fat content may vary.
What is another name for polvilho?
Polvilho is commonly known as manioc starch or tapioca flour.
How much manioc starch is needed?
The recipe requires 16 ounces of manioc starch.
Why is the texture of these bites unique?
The unique chewy texture is a result of using manioc starch (tapioca flour) instead of traditional grain flours.