20 Portuguese Custard Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
Portuguese custard, also known as pastéis de nata, is a delicious and iconic dessert that is popular all over the world. This creamy and rich custard is encased in a flaky puff pastry and is the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. While there are many variations of this recipe, the traditional Portuguese version has stood the test of time and has become a staple in many bakeries and homes. Let's take a closer look at the history and ingredients of this delectable treat.
If you're a fan of flaky, buttery pastries filled with creamy custard, then you need to try these Portuguese custard tarts. Also known as pastéis de nata, these delicious treats are a staple in Portuguese bakeries and cafes. But why go out when you can make them in the comfort of your own home? We've gathered the top 18 Portuguese custard tart recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The classic and most authentic recipe for Portuguese custard tarts, this version uses puff pastry to create a crispy and flaky crust. The custard filling is made with egg yolks, sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of lemon and vanilla for flavor. These tarts are best served warm and sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
If you're looking for a slightly different take on the classic tart, try making a Portuguese custard pie. This recipe still uses the same custard filling but is baked in a traditional pie crust for a heartier dessert. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
For a bite-sized version of the traditional tart, try making queijadas. These Portuguese custard cupcakes are made with the same custard filling but are baked in a muffin tin for a cute and portable treat. They're perfect for parties or as a sweet snack on the go.
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Queijadas (Portuguese Custard Cupcakes)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Milk, Flour, Baking Powder, Eggs, Sugar
If you want to add a twist to your queijadas, try making them with a hint of orange or almond flavor. These variations are just as delicious as the original and add a unique touch to this traditional recipe.
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QUEIJADAS (PORTUGUESE CUSTARD CUPCAKES)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Whole Milk, Flour, Baking Powder, Eggs, Sugar
Yes, you read that right – you can make vegan Portuguese custard tarts! This recipe uses tofu to create a creamy and dairy-free custard filling that is just as delicious as the traditional version. Plus, these tarts are also gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Portuguese Custard Tarts
Main Ingredients: Puff Pastry Sheets, Cinnamon, Granulated White Sugar
If you want to try a recipe that is more authentic to the original Portuguese tarts, try this one that uses a homemade dough instead of store-bought puff pastry. The dough is made with flour, butter, and water for a crispy and flaky crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy custard filling.
Ready for a challenge? This recipe for pastéis de nata requires a bit more effort and skill, but the end result is worth it. The dough is made with a mixture of flour and egg yolks, giving it a richer and more custard-like texture. And the custard filling is made with a combination of cream and milk for an extra creamy and indulgent tart.
Looking for a recipe that is quick and easy? This one for Portuguese custard tarts is perfect for you. Using store-bought puff pastry, this recipe cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. The custard filling is also made with just a few simple ingredients, making it a great option for beginner bakers.
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Portuguese Custard Tarts – Pastel de Nata Delicioso!
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Caster Sugar, Water, Cinnamon Stick, Lemon
Don't let your diet stop you from enjoying these delicious tarts. This recipe for Portuguese custard tarts is low-fat and low-calorie, making it the perfect guilt-free treat. Plus, it's approved by Slimming World and Weight Watchers, so you can indulge without any worries.
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Portuguese Custard Tarts | Slimming World & Weight...
Main Ingredients: Puff Pastry, Large Egg, Large Egg Yolk, Sweetener
Did you know that the original Portuguese custard tarts were created by monks at the Hieronymites Monastery in Lisbon? Pay homage to their delicious creation by trying this recipe that stays true to the traditional method of making the tarts. The result is an authentic and mouth-watering treat.
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Portuguese Custard Tarts – The Hieronymites Got This...
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Kosher Salt, Cold Water, Flour
This recipe for pasteis de nata is a crowd-pleaser. The dough is made with a combination of butter and shortening for a flaky and buttery crust. And the custard filling is made with a secret ingredient – cornstarch – for an extra creamy and smooth texture. These tarts are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
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The Most Delicious Pasteis de Nata – Portuguese...
Main Ingredients: Butter, Milk, Lemon Zest, Cinnamon Stick, Vanilla
If you're looking for a vegan version of the traditional Portuguese custard tarts, look no further. This recipe uses a combination of coconut milk and cornstarch to create a rich and creamy custard filling that is completely plant-based. And the dough is made with olive oil for a slightly healthier option.
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Vegan Portuguese custard tarts - Pasteis de nata vegano
Main Ingredients: Milk, Icing Sugar, Corn Starch, Vanilla Essence, Full
If you want to add a little something extra to your Portuguese custard tarts, try making them with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg. These warm and comforting flavors pair perfectly with the creamy custard filling and create a cozy and delicious treat.
If you're making dessert for a crowd, skip the individual tarts and make a traybake instead. This recipe for Portuguese custard tart traybake is perfect for parties or potlucks. The crust is made with a mixture of flour and ground almonds for a nutty and unique twist.
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Portuguese custard tart traybake
Main Ingredients: Puff Pastry, Egg Yolk, Water, Caster Sugar, Orange
For a more indulgent version of the traditional Portuguese custard tarts, try making them with double the vanilla. This recipe calls for both vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste for an extra rich and flavorful custard filling. Trust us, you won't be able to resist going back for seconds.
If you want to add a little something extra to your double vanilla tarts, try topping them with a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam before baking. The sweet and tangy fruit adds a burst of flavor to the creamy custard filling and creates a beautiful presentation.
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Double Vanilla Portuguese Custard Tarts
Main Ingredients: Large Egg Yolks, Caster Sugar, Cornflour, Salt, Cream
And last but certainly not least, we have another classic and authentic recipe for Portuguese custard tarts. This version uses a combination of heavy cream and milk for an extra rich and decadent custard filling. And the dough is made with a mixture of flour, sugar, and egg yolks for a perfectly balanced sweet treat.
The History of Portuguese Custard
The Origins
The origin of Portuguese custard can be traced back to the 18th century in Lisbon, Portugal. It is believed that Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery created this dessert using egg yolks donated by nuns who used egg whites to starch their habits. The recipe was later sold to a local sugar refinery, which began producing and selling the pastéis de nata to the public.
Popularity and Spread
Portuguese custard quickly gained popularity and became a beloved treat all over Portugal. In the 19th century, the recipe was sold to a confectionery shop called Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which is still in operation today. The shop is known for its secret recipe, which has been passed down through generations and remains a closely guarded secret.
International Fame
In the 20th century, Portuguese custard gained international fame as tourists and travelers discovered this delicious dessert during their visits to Portugal. Today, it can be found in many countries, with variations and adaptations to suit different tastes and preferences.
The Ingredients
Eggs
Eggs are the star ingredient of Portuguese custard, providing the rich and creamy texture that the dessert is known for. The traditional recipe calls for whole eggs, but some variations may use only egg yolks for a richer custard.
Milk and Cream
Milk and cream are also essential ingredients in Portuguese custard, providing the necessary moisture and creaminess to the custard filling. Some recipes may use only milk, while others call for a combination of both milk and cream.
Sugar
Sugar is used to sweeten the custard filling, giving it the perfect amount of sweetness. The amount of sugar used may vary depending on personal preference, but the traditional recipe calls for a moderate amount to balance out the richness of the custard.
Butter
Butter is added to the custard filling to enhance the flavor and add richness. It also helps to thicken the custard and create a smooth texture.
Puff Pastry
The final key ingredient of Portuguese custard is the puff pastry, which is used to encase the custard filling. The flaky and buttery pastry adds a nice contrast to the creamy custard and completes the dessert.
In conclusion, Portuguese custard is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time and captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people all over the world. Its rich history and delicious ingredients make it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. So why not try making your own pastéis de nata at home and experience the magic of this traditional Portuguese treat?