Cheese Breads

And I’m back, I officially finished my exams two days ago. My new found freedom is brilliant! To celebrate finishing my exams I decided to make these cheese breads and they turned out awesome. Cheese Breads or (Pão de Queijo) are originally from Brazil and I have grown to love this savoury treat because I lived there for 5 years when I was little. Even though the cheese breads are considered a bread, I would say their consistency is similar to a cheese puff. You know you have succeeded when they have a beautiful golden crispy outer layer and an elasticy gooey inside!

Cheese Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 250 ml milk

• 125 g butter

• 1 tsp salt

• 300 g tapioca flour (As I live in Portugal I use Povilho Doce, however tapioca flour is the correct substitute)

• 2 eggs

• 100 g grated Parmesan

Method

First, preheat the oven to 210 Celsius and then put the milk and butter into a large saucepan and bring to a boil, this should happen within 5 minutes on a medium high heat.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the tapioca flour vigorously, until well combined. Leave aside to cool down slightly

Next, transfer the mixture to stand mixer (use the paddle tool do not use the dough hook, this will get you nowhere, believe me I know) and beat until the mixture has cooled down. Then add one egg at a time making sure each is well combined.When the dough is smooth add in the Parmesan.

Roll out small balls (about the quantity of 1 tbsp) and put onto a baking sheet that has been greased with oil or butter. If the dough keeps sticking to your hands, rub a bit of oil on your hands.

Transfer the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 15 – 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and crisp to the touch. Keep in an air tight container and eat within a day. Enjoy!