Background:
Portuguese custard tarts, also known as Pastéis de Nata, are a delicious and iconic Portuguese pastry. These tarts consist of a flaky, buttery pastry shell filled with a creamy, custard-like center that is sprinkled with a hint of cinnamon. Originally created by Catholic monks in the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, these tarts have become a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are loved all around the world.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets of pre-rolled puff pastry
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and grease a muffin tin.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut out circles to line the muffin tin.
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and cinnamon stick, heating until it almost boils. Remove the cinnamon stick.
- In a bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour, then slowly whisk in the warm milk.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan, heating and whisking until it thickens.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and vanilla. Slowly add the milk mixture while stirring.
- Fill each pastry-lined muffin cup with the custard mixture.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the custard is set.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and enjoy!
These Portuguese Custard Tarts are best served warm with a cup of coffee or tea. The crispy pastry combined with the creamy custard filling is sure to delight your taste buds!
Enjoy making and savoring these delightful treats!