Easy Brazilian Cheese Rolls

The literal translation of Pao de Queijo is "bread of cheese." They're little round cheese rolls, found through much of Brazil. Pao de Queijo are extremely easy and fun to make.  Kids love them, and they're a little something different to serve company. The rolls have a slightly chewy texture.

In Brazil, manioc flour is used, as well as Brazilian cheese, but regular all-purpose flour and feta are fine substitutes. This recipe was contributed by Jose Fonseca, owner of the Delicia Brazil restaurant in New York City, in The Magical Melting Pot cookbook.  Enjoy!

Brazilian Cheese Rolls
(makes 12 rolls) 

3/4 pound (12 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour or manioc flour (available in Latino markets)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cooking oil
1 cup whole milk
2 eggs 

1.  Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2.  Mix the feta cheese, flour, and salt together in a food processor. Add the cooking oil and process a few more seconds.

3.  Warm the milk for one minute in a microwave and add to the processor mixture, along with the eggs. Process until well blended. Place mixture in a bowl and refrigerate for 1/2 hour or longer. Roll the dough into round balls the size of golf balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

4.  Bake approximately 17 minutes, or until golden brown. If you have leftover rolls, you can briefly microwave them, or cut them in half, toast them, and spread them with butter. 

Check out our quick bread recipes here.