Pan de Yuca Recipe (Colombian Cassava Bread)

If you're looking for a new, gluten-free bread recipe to try, Pan de Yuca might be just what you need. Pan de Yuca, a traditional Colombian cheese bread, is made from yuca flour—also known as cassava flour—which gives it a soft and fluffy texture that is truly unique. Even if you've never heard of yuca or cassava before, this easy-to-make recipe is a great introduction to Latin American cuisine.

Pan de Yuca is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes. You can enjoy it with a warm bowl of Colombian Ajiaco, a flavorful chicken and potato soup, or alongside a simple green salad for a light, gluten-free lunch. It also makes a delicious addition to a hearty breakfast with scrambled eggs and avocado.

What is Pan de Yuca?

Pan de Yuca, also known as cassava bread, is a popular type of bread in Colombia and other South American countries. It’s made using yuca flour, which comes from the cassava root, a starchy tuber similar to a potato.

This bread is loved for its light, airy texture and subtle cheesy flavor. If you’ve never tried baking with yuca flour before, Pan de Yuca is a perfect recipe to start with. It’s different from Brazilian Pao de Queijo, although both are made with cheese and cassava flour. Pan de Yuca has a softer texture and is less chewy, making it great for sandwiches or as a tasty snack on its own.

This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes. Enjoy it with Colombian Ajiaco for a comforting meal or with a fresh green salad for a lighter option. It’s also perfect for breakfast with scrambled eggs and avocado, offering a filling and nutritious start to your day.

Pan de Yuca Ingredients

To make Pan de Yuca, you only need a handful of ingredients, each playing a key role in the final bread:

• Yuca flour – This is the main ingredient, giving the bread its distinct soft and fluffy texture. It’s gluten-free and made from the cassava root.
• Baking powder – This helps the bread rise, giving it a light and airy texture.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the bread and balances the cheesy taste.
• Queso fresco – A mild, fresh cheese that melts into the bread, adding a subtle creaminess.
• Eggs – These help bind the ingredients together and add moisture, ensuring the bread is soft and tender.

How to Make Pan de Yuca

Making Pan de Yuca at home is straightforward, even if you’ve never baked bread before. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking pan and set it aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the yuca flour, baking powder, salt, and crumbled queso fresco. Pulse the mixture until everything is well combined.
3. Gradually add in the eggs while continuing to pulse the mixture. You should end up with a thick, smooth batter.
4. Divide the batter into 10 small balls, rolling them with your hands, and place them on the greased baking pan.
5. Bake the balls in the oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and slightly puffed.

Tips For Making This Recipe

• Use fresh yuca flour to ensure the best texture.
• Make sure the queso fresco is finely crumbled for an even distribution throughout the dough.
• If you want a cheesier flavor, you can add a small amount of grated mozzarella or parmesan to the mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour instead of yuca flour?

Yuca flour is what gives Pan de Yuca its unique texture, so it’s best to use it if possible. However, if you need to substitute, tapioca flour could be an alternative, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

How long does Pan de Yuca stay fresh?

Pan de Yuca is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze the baked bread and reheat it in the oven when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Have you tried making Pan de Yuca? Be sure to rate and review this recipe after you’ve made it! And don’t forget—you can easily print the recipe card below to keep this gluten-free bread recipe handy for your next baking session.