Brazilian Cheese Bread Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Brazilian cheese bread, or Pão de Queijo, is a beloved snack originating from Brazil, known for its irresistible chewy texture and cheesy flavor. Traditionally made with tapioca flour and cheese, this delightful bread is naturally gluten-free.

But what if you want to enjoy this classic treat while following a vegan lifestyle? Good news!

You can make a delicious vegan Brazilian cheese bread that perfectly mimics the original’s cheesy goodness without any animal products. It’s a perfect snack for any time of day — crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and packed with flavor.

In this recipe, we’ll use plant-based cheese alternatives and a few smart substitutions to create the authentic texture and taste that make Pão de Queijo so addictive. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to try something new, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and bake some delightful vegan cheese bread? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Brazilian cheese bread recipe is a game-changer for cheese bread lovers who avoid dairy. It uses tapioca flour, which gives the bread its signature chewy and airy texture, combined with vegan cheese to replicate that irresistible cheesy flavor.

The best part? It’s naturally gluten-free and free from any animal ingredients, suitable for a wide range of diets.

Not only does this recipe come together quickly with simple ingredients, but it also bakes into perfectly puffed, golden snacks that are great for breakfast, parties, or as a comforting afternoon treat.

Plus, the recipe is easily customizable, so you can experiment with different vegan cheeses or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup tapioca flour (also called tapioca starch)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 1/4 cup vegan cheese shreds (nutritional yeast can be added for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
  • Spoon or cookie scoop

Instructions

  1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water. Stir well and set aside for about 5 minutes until it thickens and gels.
  2. Heat the liquids: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the plant-based milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Heat until just about to boil and then immediately remove from heat.
  3. Add tapioca flour: Pour the hot liquid mixture into a large mixing bowl containing the tapioca flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough starts to come together and looks sticky and stretchy.
  4. Incorporate flax egg and vegan cheese: Add the flax egg and vegan cheese shreds to the dough. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is evenly distributed. The dough will be sticky and elastic, which is perfect.
  5. Add baking powder: Sprinkle the baking powder over the dough and mix it in well. This helps the bread puff up nicely in the oven.
  6. Shape the dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out small balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Leave enough space between each ball as they will puff up when baking.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the breads are golden brown and puffed up.
  8. Cool slightly and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Tapioca flour is essential for the chewy texture of Brazilian cheese bread. Make sure to use tapioca starch/flour and not cassava flour for the best results.

Variation: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist. You can also experiment with different vegan cheeses such as mozzarella-style shreds or a mix of nutritional yeast and vegan parmesan.

Storage: These breads are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (1 piece)
Calories 90
Fat 6g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 0.5g
Protein 1g
Sodium 120mg

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegan Brazilian cheese bread warm with a variety of dips such as guacamole, vegan pesto, or a spicy tomato salsa. They also pair wonderfully with breakfast dishes or as a snack alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.

If you love experimenting with vegan baking, you might enjoy trying other delicious recipes on this site like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy vegan pasta sauce, or treat yourself to a sweet delight with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

For more savory baking inspiration, check out the Cheese Penny Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan Brazilian cheese bread recipe is proof that you don’t have to give up your favorite snacks when switching to a plant-based lifestyle. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the authentic texture and cheesy flavor of Pão de Queijo without any dairy.

It’s a versatile, gluten-free treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. The chewy, cheesy bites are sure to impress your family and friends, and you might even convert some non-vegans along the way!

So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and make yourself some warm, irresistible vegan Brazilian cheese bread today.

📖 Recipe Card: Brazilian Cheese Bread Recipe Vegan

Description: A delicious vegan twist on the classic Brazilian cheese bread, made with tapioca flour and nutritional yeast. Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect for snacks or breakfast.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 12 pieces

Ingredients

  • 1 cup tapioca flour
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 5 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, combine tapioca flour, nutritional yeast, salt, and baking powder.
  4. Add plant-based milk, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and flax egg to the dry ingredients.
  5. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
  6. Shape dough into 12 small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.
  8. Cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 110 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Marta K

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