Portuguese Custard Tarts

There’s nothing quite like the allure of a Portuguese Custard Tart. Picture this: a flaky, golden crust that cradles a creamy, luscious custard filling, lightly dusted with cinnamon and sugar. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds before you even take that first bite. flaky cheese fatayer It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like you’re strolling through the charming streets of Lisbon, indulging in a sweet treat while soaking up the sun.

I still remember the first time I tried these delightful tarts. My friend brought them to a gathering, and I was instantly hooked. Everyone gathered around, eagerly awaiting their turn to savor these little bites of heaven. They disappeared faster than my willpower at a dessert buffet! Whether for breakfast, dessert, or just because it’s Tuesday, these tarts are perfect for any occasion.

My family couldn’t get enough of these tarts during our last holiday dinner; there were happy tears and requests for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious garlic parmesan focaccia.

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our tart crust; choose a finely milled variety for better texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Freshly softened butter gives your pastry that rich flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. easy no knead focaccia.
• Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar in both the crust and filling enhances sweetness; adjust based on your preference.
• Eggs: You’ll need large eggs to create a rich custard; fresh eggs work best for optimal flavor and creaminess.
• Milk: Whole milk provides the necessary creaminess for the custard; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
• Cinnamon: A sprinkle enhances warmth and aroma; feel free to adjust according to your liking.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for more authentic flavor; imitation can lessen your custard’s depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want those tarts baking evenly for that delightful golden brown color. Grab your favorite baking pan – ideally a muffin tin – as we’re going mini with these beauties!

Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with softened butter until crumbly. Add sugar and a pinch of salt; mix well until combined into a dough-like consistency.

Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles slightly larger than your muffin tin cups so you can press them into place easily.

Form the Tart Shells: Carefully press each circle into a muffin tin cup to form little tart shells. Don’t worry if they look imperfect; they’re going to be delicious regardless!

Create the Custard Filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy – this is where all the magic happens! For more inspiration, check out this homemade desserts recipe.

Fill the Tart Shells: Pour the custard mixture into each tart shell until they are filled about three-quarters full. This allows room for rising while baking!

Bake Them Up: Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are lightly browned and puffed up beautifully. Your kitchen will smell divine at this point!

Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin – patience is key here! Serve warm or chilled with an extra dusting of cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy.

These Portuguese Custard Tarts are not just treats but moments waiting to happen around your kitchen table. savory chicken teriyaki bowls Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the pastry dough first. While it chills, mix the custard, then assemble and bake for perfect tarts.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with flavors! Add citrus zest or vanilla bean to kick up the custard’s flavor profile. For more inspiration, check out this lemon blueberry recipes recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat briefly in the oven to regain their crispness.

Creating these Portuguese Custard Tarts brought back memories of my travels in Lisbon, where every corner had a bakery tempting me with their sweet aroma.

FAQ

What is the secret to a crispy crust in Portuguese Custard Tarts?

Chill your pastry dough thoroughly before rolling out for extra flakiness.

Can I use alternative milks for the custard?

Yes, almond or oat milk can work well but will change flavor slightly.

How long do Portuguese Custard Tarts last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to three days in the fridge.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Portuguese Custard Tarts

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Gordon Calloway
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 tarts 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Portuguese Custard Tarts, or Pastéis de Nata, are a delightful pastry featuring a flaky crust and a creamy custard filling. This beloved dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled for a refreshing treat. Easy to make and sure to impress, these tarts transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Lisbon with every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour and softened butter until crumbly. Add half the sugar and a pinch of salt; mix to form dough.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles slightly larger than muffin tin cups.
4. Press each circle into the muffin tin to form tart shells.
5. In another bowl, whisk eggs, remaining sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Pour custard mixture into each tart shell until three-quarters full.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden brown and puffed.
8. Allow cooling slightly before serving warm or chilled.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Portuguese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tart (60g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 85mg