Quick & Easy Cheese Bread (No Oven Needed!) – Ready in 25 Minutes
This Brazilian-inspired Pão de Queijo (cheese bread) is crispy outside, chewy inside, and made without an oven—just a stovetop or air fryer!
Ingredients:
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1 egg
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¼ cup milk
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2 tbsp melted butter
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2 cups tapioca flour (or cornstarch, but tapioca is traditional)
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1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella, parmesan, or cheddar)
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1 tsp baking powder
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Pinch of salt
Instructions (Stovetop Method)
1. Mix the Dough
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In a bowl, whisk egg, milk, melted butter, and salt.
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Add tapioca flour and baking powder, mixing until crumbly.
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Fold in grated cheese until a sticky dough forms (add 1-2 tsp more milk if too dry).
2. Shape the Bread
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Wet your hands (to prevent sticking) and roll dough into 12-15 small balls (golf-ball size).
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Flatten slightly for even cooking.
3. Cook on Stovetop
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Nonstick pan method:
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Heat a covered skillet on low-medium heat.
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Add dough balls, leaving space between them.
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Cover and cook 5-7 mins per side until golden and puffed.
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Air fryer method (if available):
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Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 mins, shaking halfway.
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4. Serve Warm!
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Best eaten fresh—crispy outside, stretchy-cheesy inside!
Tips & Swaps
🔥 Extra flavor? Add garlic powder, herbs, or diced ham.
🍞 No tapioca flour? Cornstarch works but will be denser.
🧀 Vegan? Use plant-based cheese + flax egg.
Perfect with coffee or as a snack! Enjoy your fast, cheesy, no-oven bread. 😋🧀
Want a sweet version (cinnamon sugar)? Let me know!