Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to please? Look no further than pão de queijo, a classic Brazilian cheese bread that’s become a staple around the world. With its crispy outside and gooey inside, it’s the perfect treat to serve at your next gathering or enjoy on your own.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering pão de queijo recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From classic variations to creative twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a garlic fanatic, or just looking for a new culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to inspire your next baking session.
Classic Brazilian Pão de Queijo
Pão de queijo, or cheese bread, is a beloved staple in Brazilian cuisine. This simple yet flavorful recipe yields a golden-crusted, gooey-centered loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pão de Queijo
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic Brazilian-inspired dish! This recipe combines the richness of melted cheese with the savory flavor of garlic and crispy texture of bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Butter or oil for greasing the baking sheet
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Add milk, garlic, and salt; mix until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape into 6-8 small balls and place on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each pao.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden glaze.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven; let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Pão de Queijo
Pão de queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. This recipe gives the traditional version a spicy kick by incorporating jalapeños into the dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheese (combination of cheddar and Parmesan works well)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and chopped jalapeños.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Herb-Infused Pão de Queijo
This recipe adds a fragrant and flavorful twist to the traditional Pão de Queijo, infusing the cheese bread with the warmth of herbs. Perfect as a snack or side dish, this herb-infused version is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated queijo fresco (or other mild cheese)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add grated cheese, olive oil, parsley, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add lukewarm milk, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes elastic.
6. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Cheese Pão de Queijo
Pão de queijo is a popular Brazilian bread that’s typically enjoyed as a snack or side dish. This recipe adds a smoky, savory twist by incorporating crispy bacon and melted cheese into the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add Parmesan and cheddar cheese, egg, and milk. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon.
5. Brush the tops of the dough with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Cinnamon Pão de Queijo
Sweet Cinnamon Pão de Queijo Recipe
This Brazilian-inspired cheese bread recipe combines the richness of melted cheese with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Pão de Queijo
Pão de Queijo is a popular Brazilian cheese bread that’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish. In this recipe, we add the nutrients of spinach and the tanginess of feta to create a delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, Parmesan and cheddar cheese, sugar, salt, and yeast.
3. Gradually add milk, water, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes. Add garlic, spinach, and feta. Mix well.
5. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a round or oblong shape.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Gluten-Free Pão de Queijo
Pão de queijo, a classic Brazilian cheese bread, gets a gluten-free twist in this recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside treat without the worry of gluten.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup tapioca starch
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, tapioca starch, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheese, egg, and olive oil until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it forms a ball.
6. Shape into 4-6 small balls or 1 large ball.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each ball.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vegan Pão de Queijo with Cashew Cheese
Experience the rich flavors of Brazil with this creamy cashew cheese-stuffed bread, perfectly adapted for a vegan diet. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending traditional pão de queijo with a dairy-free twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours.
3. Drain and rinse the cashews, then blend with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the melted vegan butter or margarine to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Knead for 5 minutes, then shape into a ball.
7. Flatten the ball slightly and place the cashew cheese mixture in the center.
8. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a ball again, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Pão de Queijo Bites
Mini Pão de Queijo Bites: A Brazilian Twist on Cheese Bread
These bite-sized cheese breads are a delightful twist on the classic Portuguese recipe, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. With their crispy exterior and gooey interior, these mini treats will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup grated cheese (Muenster or Cheddar work well)
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and sugar.
3. Add grated cheese, milk, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Melted butter should be stirred in last.
5. Drop small balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Pão de Queijo Stuffed with Ham
Experience the delightful combination of crispy, cheesy bread filled with savory ham in this easy-to-make Pão de Queijo Stuffed with Ham recipe. This Brazilian-inspired treat is perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, ham, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Shape into balls or logs, depending on desired shape.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bread.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Parmesan Crust
Pão de Queijo is a classic Brazilian recipe that combines crispy cheese bread with a crunchy Parmesan crust. This savory treat is perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheese, milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the bread.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crusty.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pão de Queijo, a classic Brazilian bread, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes. This braided cheese bread is perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add olive oil, beaten egg, and parsley; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into three equal parts and roll each part into a long rope.
6. Braid the ropes together and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes on top of the bread.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Caramelized Onions
Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. By adding sweet and savory caramelized onions to the mix, this recipe takes it to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated queijo fresco or cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cheese, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and caramelized onions (cook onions in butter over low heat for 20-25 minutes).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Chorizo and Cheese
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Pão de Queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) with the spicy kick of chorizo, creating a deliciously savory and cheesy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and olive oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then shape into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Top each ball with a slice of chorizo and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Rosemary and Olive Oil
This Portuguese-inspired bread combines the richness of queijo cheese with the savory flavor of rosemary and the depth of olive oil. Perfect for a snack or side dish, this Pão de Queijo is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated queijo cheese (Portuguese-style)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons warm water
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, queijo cheese, salt, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, olive oil, and chopped rosemary. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush egg wash over the top of the bread.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Goat Cheese and Honey
This sweet and savory Pão de Queijo variation combines the richness of goat cheese with the warmth of honey, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress. This recipe is perfect for those looking to spice up their bread game or seeking a new twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
3. Add crumbled goat cheese, baking powder, and whisk until just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, honey, and milk.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
7. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Black Pepper and Thyme
This classic Brazilian cheese bread gets an aromatic boost from the addition of black pepper and thyme. The result is a savory, crumbly loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, yeast, salt, and black pepper.
3. Gradually add olive oil, milk, and thyme; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Smoked Gouda
Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread that’s crispy outside and gooey inside. By adding smoked Gouda to the mix, we’ve added a rich and savory depth to this comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated smoked Gouda
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, smoked Gouda, Parmesan cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pão de Queijo with Roasted Red Peppers
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of traditional Pão de Queijo (Cheese Bread) with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this twist on a classic will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (see note), chopped
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped roasted red peppers.
6. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Pão de Queijo! This classic Brazilian recipe has been reimagined with 20 delicious variations that are easy to make. From classic to spicy, sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone. Try the Cheesy Garlic version or spice it up with Jalapeño peppers. For a twist, add some caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes. Or, go all out with the Bacon and Cheese or Chorizo and Cheese options. Whatever your taste, these Pão de Queijo recipes are sure to satisfy!
