How to Make Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pastéis de Nata) at Home

 

Craving a taste of Portugal? Learn how to make authentic Portuguese Custard Tarts with this simple recipe! These crispy, flaky pastries filled with creamy custard are perfect for dessert or a special treat with coffee.

Learn how to make authentic Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pastéis de Nata) at home with this easy recipe! Perfectly crisp pastry and creamy custard filling — a delicious homemade dessert.

Why You Should Make Portuguese Custard Tarts at Home

There’s nothing like biting into a freshly baked Portuguese custard tart. The contrast between the crispy, buttery pastry and the silky-smooth custard is pure magic. While they might look fancy, these iconic Pastéis de Nata are surprisingly easy to make at home — and the results are absolutely worth it.

What Are Portuguese Custard Tarts?

Portuguese custard tarts, or Pastéis de Nata, are a beloved pastry originating in Lisbon. These treats feature flaky layers of puff pastry filled with a rich, egg-based custard that’s caramelized on top for a slightly crispy, golden finish.

They’re perfect as a snack, dessert, or alongside your afternoon coffee!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)

• Flour (for dusting)

For the custard filling:

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon

• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Shells

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

• Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut it into circles to fit your muffin tin.

• Press the pastry circles into the muffin cups, making sure they’re evenly lined. Chill the tin in the fridge while you prepare the custard.

2. Make the Custard Filling

• In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and milk until smooth.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).

• Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and cinnamon (if using).

3. Fill and Bake the Tarts

• Pour the custard into the chilled pastry cups, filling each about ¾ full.

• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the custard is set with a caramelized top.

• Let the tarts cool for 10 minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.

Tips for Perfect Portuguese Custard Tarts

• Chill the pastry: Keeping the pastry cold helps it stay crispy during baking.

• Caramelized top: For a more authentic look, you can broil the tarts for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

• Storage: These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making Portuguese custard tarts at home is not only rewarding but also brings a taste of travel to your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring one with your morning coffee, these little pastries are bound to become a favorite.

Ready to Bake? Try This Recipe Today!

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Portugal or simply want to try a new baking project, this recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s surprisingly simple, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Let me know how your homemade Portuguese custard tarts turn out — or snap a photo and tag me on social media!

Happy baking!