Pão de Deus (Portuguese Coconut Sweet Rolls)

Pão de Deus, or “Bread of God,” is a soft and fluffy Portuguese sweet roll topped with a golden coconut crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an indulgent afternoon treat, these delightful buns strike the ideal balance between sweet, light, and slightly tropical. Whether you’re craving a cozy baked good or exploring Portuguese comfort food, this recipe is a heavenly place to start.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Light, fluffy interior with a rich coconut topping.
• Great for both breakfast and dessert.
• Easy to prepare at home with pantry staples.
• Crowd-pleasing—kids and adults adore them alike.
• An authentic taste of Portugal, no passport required!

What Is Pão de Deus?

Pão de Deus, which translates to “Bread of God,” is a traditional Portuguese roll that dates back to the 18th century. Originally served on All Saints' Day, it has since become a staple in bakeries throughout Portugal. The dough is soft, slightly sweet, and enriched with eggs and olive oil. But what makes it truly divine is the coconut crust—sticky, caramelized, and perfectly golden after baking. It’s often dusted with powdered sugar for that final sweet touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Pão de Deus

• Use warm (not hot) water to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Let the dough fully rise—the texture depends on proper fermentation.
• Choose unsweetened shredded coconut for best results.
• A splash of rum enhances aroma but can be skipped for a non-alcoholic version.
• Don’t skip the egg wash—it helps the coconut topping adhere and adds shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Pão de Deus Without Coconut?

Traditionally, no—but you can replace it with almond flakes or sweetened cream cheese topping for a twist.

What Type of Flour Should I Use?

All-purpose flour works best for a soft, tender crumb.

Can I Make the Dough in Advance?

Yes! After the first rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Why Didn’t My Dough Rise?

Check that your yeast is active and that the water wasn’t too hot. Also ensure a warm, draft-free resting environment.

Is Pão de Deus Eaten Warm or Cold?

Either! They’re amazing warm out of the oven, but still delicious at room temperature.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to use a large enough mixing bowl and increase rise times slightly.

How to Store Pão de Deus

Let the sweet rolls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5–7 minutes to restore the softness and enhance the aroma.

How to Freeze Pão de Deus

To freeze, let the rolls cool fully, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

How to Make Pão de Deus

Step 1

Step 1

In a large bowl, whisk warm water, yeast, and 1½ tbsp sugar. Let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes).

In a large bowl, whisk warm water, yeast, and 1½ tbsp sugar. Let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes).

Step 2

Step 2

Add eggs, milk, olive oil, rum, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

Add eggs, milk, olive oil, rum, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

Step 3

Step 3

Gradually add flour and remaining ½ cup sugar. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.

Gradually add flour and remaining ½ cup sugar. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.

Step 4

Step 4

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled.

Step 5

Step 5

Punch down the dough and divide into 10 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Punch down the dough and divide into 10 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6

Step 6

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let rise for 1 hour.

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 7

Step 7

Mix grated coconut, sugar, eggs, and milk in a bowl to form a sticky mixture.

Mix grated coconut, sugar, eggs, and milk in a bowl to form a sticky mixture.

Step 8

Step 8

Brush the rolls with beaten egg and top each one with the coconut mixture. Bake at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden.

Brush the rolls with beaten egg and top each one with the coconut mixture. Bake at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden.

Step 9

Step 9

Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!

Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!