Name: Purple Yam Brazilian Bread
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 large or 2 medium purple yam (around 2 cups mashed); 3/4 cup tapioca starch (flour); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2.5 Tbsp granulated sugar; 1/4 cup warm milk

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If you’re looking for a fun and unique twist on Brazilian cheese bread, this Purple Yam Brazilian Bread is a must-try! It’s naturally gluten-free, has a soft and chewy texture, and brings a hint of sweetness from the purple yam.

Plus, it’s super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or a fun breakfast treat, you’ll love how delicious and vibrant these little bites are!

Table of Contents

What is Purple Yam Brazilian Bread?

Purple Yam Brazilian Bread is a naturally gluten-free bread made with mashed purple yam and tapioca starch. Inspired by the classic Brazilian pão de queijo (cheese bread), this version swaps cheese for the slightly sweet and earthy flavor of purple yam. The result? A chewy, airy bread with a stunning purple color that’s as tasty as it is eye-catching!

The main ingredient, purple yam, is a starchy root vegetable that’s commonly used in Southeast Asian desserts. It has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor, making it perfect for both savory and sweet dishes.

Pairing it with tapioca starch gives this bread its signature chewy texture, making it an excellent option for those avoiding gluten.

Why You’ll Love This Purple Yam Brazilian Bread Recipe

Easy to make: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, and there’s no yeast or proofing required.
Chewy and soft texture: The combination of mashed purple yam and tapioca starch gives it a unique chewiness similar to Brazilian cheese bread.
Naturally gluten-free: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a wheat-free bread option.

Ingredients

Purple Yam: The star ingredient that gives the bread its natural sweetness, soft texture, and gorgeous purple color.
Tapioca Starch: Essential for creating the chewy, stretchy texture that Brazilian cheese bread is known for.
Olive Oil: Adds moisture to the dough and gives the bread a light, tender texture.
Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the purple yam and balances the flavors.
Warm Milk: Helps bring the dough together and creates a smooth, pliable texture.

How to Make Purple Yam Brazilian Bread

Cook the Purple Yam

Wash and dry the yam, then poke a few holes in it with a fork to allow steam to escape. Air fry at 400°F for 35-40 minutes until soft. Let it cool, peel off the skin, and mash it in a bowl until smooth.

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed yam, tapioca starch, olive oil, sugar, and warm milk. Mix well and knead the dough until it becomes smooth. If needed, add a little more milk gradually until the dough is firm but not sticky.

Shape the Dough

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a ball.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the dough balls on it. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tops are slightly golden and the bread is puffed up.

Cool & Enjoy

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm!

Storage

These are best eaten fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their chewiness.

Tips

Adjust the dough consistency: If the dough feels too dry, add a little more warm milk until it comes together smoothly. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more tapioca starch.
Serve warm for best texture: These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re at their softest and chewiest!