If you’ve never tried Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pasteis de Nata) before, you’re in for a treat! These delicious tarts are a perfect combination of flaky pastry and creamy custard filling, making them an irresistible dessert or snack for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The rich custard filling paired with the buttery, flaky pastry creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Quick prep time: While making rough puff pastry from scratch may seem daunting, the results are well worth the effort.
- Perfect for meal prep: These tarts can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick and tasty treat anytime.
Ingredient Notes:
- Homemade rough puff pastry: Using homemade puff pastry is key to achieving the authentic taste of Macau Egg Tarts. Store-bought puff pastry just won’t cut it!
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
- Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance out the flavors.
- Whole milk: Adds a creamy texture to the custard.
- Egg yolks: Gives the custard its rich and velvety consistency.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the custard.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the custard.
Step-by-Step Instructions based on homemade rough puff pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F and prepare a muffin tin.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles to fit the muffin tin cups.
- Press the pastry into the cups, making sure to leave a slight overhang.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream, sugar, and milk until just simmering.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
- Pour the custard into the pastry cups and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden brown.
Helpful Tips:
- Chill the pastry dough before rolling it out for easier handling.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry circles for a clean edge.
- Dust the top of the tarts with cinnamon or powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
- Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use cold ingredients when making the puff pastry for a flaky texture.
- Blind bake the pastry before adding the custard to prevent a soggy bottom.
- Dust the custard with nutmeg before baking for a warm, spicy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
These Portuguese Custard Tarts are best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or tea. Pair them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, place the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe? While you can use store-bought puff pastry, homemade puff pastry will yield the best results.
- Can I freeze these tarts? Yes, you can freeze the tarts before baking and then bake them straight from the freezer when ready to enjoy.
- How can I prevent the custard from curdling? Whisk the egg yolk mixture slowly while adding the hot cream to prevent curdling.
Conclusion:
Now that you have the secrets to making delicious Portuguese Custard Tarts, give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Don’t forget to share your feedback and let us know how they turned out! Happy baking!
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Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pasteis de Nata)
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 12 tarts 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Portuguese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These rich and creamy Portuguese Custard Tarts are a delightful treat with a flaky crust and a smooth custard filling. Perfect for a sweet indulgence or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Portuguese Custard Tarts:
- 420 g homemade rough puff pastry
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the custard filling: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool.
- Assemble the tarts: Roll out the puff pastry and line tart molds. Fill each with the custard and bake until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For an authentic taste, use homemade puff pastry.
- You can sprinkle cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg