Fine manioc starch, sweet, Combrasil, bag 500g Polvilho doce (sweet manioc starch) has been used in many traditional Brazilian desserts since colonial times. The sweetish manioc starch can also be used as a thickener in sauces and puddings or as a gluten-free substitute in baked goods (breads, biscuits, cakes) and desserts. The traditional Brazilian Pão de Queijo can also be baked alternatively with sweet manioc starch, in a milder version than with the sourish starch.