The Best Brazilian Cheese Bread Pie (Torta de Queijo): Cheesy, Golden, Irresistible!
Before we dive in, I just want to take a moment to say—thank you! Whether you've been following my kitchen adventures for a while or this is your first visit, I’m so grateful you’re here. Sharing recipes like today’s feels like passing along a warm, cheesy hug from my kitchen to yours. And oh, this one is something special.
Today, we’re baking a fluffy, golden, savory slice of Brazilian comfort: Torta de Queijo, also known as Brazilian Cheese Bread Pie. It’s simple. It’s cheesy. It’s downright addicting. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s a staple in Brazilian households!
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What Is Brazilian Cheese Bread Pie?
Think of this as the rustic cousin of pão de queijo (those addictive Brazilian cheese rolls), but baked in one glorious pie form. It’s soft and slightly springy inside, with a beautiful golden crust and the dreamiest cheesy flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-bowl batter: No complicated dough-making here!
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Versatile for any meal: Breakfast, brunch, snack, or dinner.
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That golden cheesy top! (Seriously, I’m still drooling.)
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Naturally gluten-free: Thanks to tapioca starch.
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Comfort food with a Brazilian twist.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a tender, cheesy custard pie with the bounce of pão de queijo but richer, more savory. It’s got that melt-in-your-mouth center, just the right amount of chew, and a crisp top that’s lightly toasted with pockets of bubbly, golden cheese. It’s anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
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Quick prep and hands-off baking.
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Kid-friendly and perfect for lunchboxes.
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Easily reheats without losing texture.
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No yeast or rising time needed.
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Stores well and freezes beautifully.
Ingredients
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3 large eggs
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2 cups grated cheese (preferably a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan or Minas cheese if you can find it!)
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1 cup milk
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½ cup oil (neutral like canola or sunflower)
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1¼ cup tapioca starch
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp salt
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Fresh herbs (optional) – parsley or chives add a lovely touch
Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk or blender
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9-inch round cake pan or pie dish
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Oven
Additions & Substitutions
Add-ins to try:
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Cooked bacon bits
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Chopped scallions
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Diced jalapeños for heat
Substitutes:
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Swap milk for a plant-based version (unsweetened soy works best).
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Can’t find tapioca starch? Try a mix of cornstarch and potato starch, but it won’t have quite the same bounce.
How to Make Brazilian Cheese Bread Pie
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Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease your baking dish.
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Blend or whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and salt.
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Add tapioca starch and baking powder; mix until smooth.
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Fold in cheese and any herbs or extras.
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Pour into the pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden and puffed up.
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Cool slightly before slicing—if you can wait!
The smell when this is in the oven is incredible. I’m kicking myself for not having shot it baking!
What to Serve with It
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Pair with a simple salad for a light meal.
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Serve with soup (like creamy tomato or pumpkin).
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Add slices to a brunch board with fruits and ham.
Tips for Success
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Don’t overmix once the cheese goes in—keep some texture.
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Use a blender if you want a super smooth batter.
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Let it rest for 5–10 mins after baking for easier slicing.
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Use full-fat cheese for the richest flavor and browning.
How to Store It
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Fridge: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
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To reheat: Warm in oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 10 minutes—gets that crisp top again!
General Info
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Cuisine: Brazilian
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Prep time: 10 mins
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Cook time: 35 mins
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Servings: 8
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Gluten-Free: Yes
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Vegetarian: Yes
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try vegan cheese and plant-based milk, though texture may vary.
Is tapioca starch the same as cassava flour?
Nope! Tapioca starch is more refined and has a smoother texture—cassava flour is denser.
Can I make this in muffin tins?
Absolutely! Just reduce bake time to 20–25 minutes.
Conclusion
There’s something beautifully nostalgic and comforting about this Brazilian Cheese Bread Pie. Whether you grew up with it or you’re discovering it for the first time, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of Brazilian flair to your table.
So go ahead—slice in while it’s warm, cheesy, and golden on top. 🧀💛
Want more cozy recipes? Try my:
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Peach Cornbread Cake
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Honeyed Peach Galette
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Peach & Burrata Salad with Basil Oil
💬 Let’s Keep Baking Together!
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment, rate it, and tag me in your cheesy creations on Pinterest—I love seeing your spins on it!
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per slice)
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Calories: 220
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Protein: 9g
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Fat: 15g
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Carbs: 14g
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Fiber: 0.5g