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Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts)

An easy recipe for these traditional Portuguese custard tarts that are super delicious and a treat for the entire family.

Prep Time
25 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
1 hr
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Portuguese

Ingredients

For the crust:
  • 1 heet of puff pastry
For the cream:
  • 50 g flour
  • 250 g sugar
  • 350 ml milk
  • 85 ml water
  • 6 egg yolks
  • 5 ml vanilla extract or essence
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • zest of a lemon
Extra:
  • oil for greasing the cups/tray
  • cinnamon/powdered sugar for decorating

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Put the water, sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, and vanilla into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Let it boil until it reaches the consistency of syrup and the sugar has completely melted.
  2. Mix the flour, milk, and salt well in a second saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously for 5 minutes or until very well blended and a thick cream begins to form.
  3. Let both mixtures cool for 10 min.
  4. Remove the cinnamon stick and mix the cream and the syrup together. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, and mix well until you get a fine golden custard.
  5. Cut out circles from the puff pastry sheet using either a glass or a special cutter.
  6. Grease the muffin tray or cups well with oil and place each circle of dough into a cup, pressing with your fingers to spread and thin it.
  7. Fill each cup, leaving about one third empty so that the filling can expand.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 230 °C/445 °F. You will know the tarts are done when they become firm and have brown spots on the surface.
  9. Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing them from the tray/cups and use a spoon or spatula to gently detach the edges if stuck.
  10. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon on top. Enjoy warm or store at room temperature for 1-2 days.

Notes