Portuguese Custard Tarts, or Pastéis de Nata, are a beloved pastry with a creamy, rich custard filling encased in a crispy, flaky pastry shell. Originating from Lisbon, these tarts are known for their golden, caramelized tops and indulgent vanilla-infused centers. A delightful contrast of textures and flavors, these tarts are often enjoyed with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack with coffee, Portuguese Custard Tarts bring the charm of traditional European bakeries right to your home.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup water
- Cinnamon or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle. Roll it up tightly from one side to form a log, then slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a disc and press it into the muffin tin, forming a shell.
- Make the custard: In a saucepan, whisk together the flour, sugar, and 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Heat the milk and cream: In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and cream until just simmering. Slowly whisk the milk mixture into the flour mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Temper the egg yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a little of the warm custard mixture into the yolks to temper them, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the custard.
- Fill the pastry shells: Pour the custard into the prepared puff pastry shells, filling them almost to the top.
- Bake the tarts: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the custard is set and the tops are lightly caramelized. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to get a more golden top, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the tarts cool slightly, then dust with cinnamon or powdered sugar before serving.
These Portuguese Custard Tarts offer a delightful combination of flaky pastry and smooth, creamy custard that will transport you to the streets of Lisbon with every bite!
