What kind of cheese is used in Brazilian cheese bread?

Traditionally, Brazilian cheese bread uses queijo Minas , a Brazilian cheese that’s slightly tangy and semi-soft. Outside Brazil, most folks use Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for a sharp, melty flavor. This Brazilian cheese bread recipe is flexible—feel free to get creative with your cheese drawer.

What makes Brazilian cheese bread rise?

The rise in this Brazilian cheese bread recipe comes from steam and tapioca starch . When baked at a high temperature, the moisture in the batter turns to steam, puffing up the dough without yeast or baking powder. That’s what gives it that signature airy center.

What is the cheese bread at Brazilian Steakhouse?

That’s pão de queijo—the very same chewy, cheesy bread made with tapioca flour and cheese. It’s served hot and fresh as a starter at most Brazilian steakhouses. Our homemade Brazilian cheese bread recipe gives you that same experience right from your own oven.

What do you serve with Brazilian cheese bread?

This bread pairs beautifully with grilled meats, feijoada (Brazilian black bean stew), soups, salads, or even just butter and jam. It’s one of the most versatile items you can add to your table—and this Brazilian cheese bread recipe makes it easy.

Brazilian Cheese Bread Recipe – The Best Gluten-Free Snack You’ll Love (2025)

Ingredients

Scale

1 large egg (room temperature)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2/3 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
1 1/2 cups (170g) tapioca flour
1/2 cup (66g) grated or crumbled cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Olive oil or butter (for greasing the pan)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil or butter.
Blend the batter: Add egg, olive oil, milk, tapioca flour, cheese, and salt into a blender. Blend until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Fill the pan: Pour the batter into the muffin wells, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown on top.
Cool slightly: Let rest for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Storage Store leftover batter in the fridge for up to 7 days, or baked rolls in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in toaster oven for best texture.

Notes

Storage Tip: Store batter in fridge for 7 days or freeze baked bread up to 1 month

Best Pairings: Grilled meats, soups, jams, herbed dips

Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 20 min