Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts)
These Portuguese custard tarts are crisp, creamy, and utterly irresistible. I made this recipe gluten-free, but you can make it with regular puff pastry from the store. The delightful combination of a flaky crust and creamy custard filling makes these tarts a favorite treat. Perfect for any occasion, they are...
Ingredients
sheet gluten-free puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)1
whole milk1cup
granulated sugar1/4cup
cornstarch2tbsp
vanilla extract1tsp
large egg yolks3
Cinnamon and powdered sugar (for dusting)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
24.6kcal (1.23%)
Protein
0.7g (1.38%)
Carbs
3.4g (1.23%)
Sugars
2.7g (5.38%)
Healthy Fat
0.3g
Unhealthy Fat
0.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts)
- Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Step 2
Roll out the gluten-free puff pastry on a floured surface until it’s thin.
- Step 3
Cut the pastry into squares or circles to fit your muffin tins.
- Step 4
Line the muffin tins with the gluten-free pastry squares.
- Step 5
In a saucepan, combine milk, cornstarch, sugar, and vanilla. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Step 6
Place egg yolks in a medium bowl. Slowly whisk 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks.
- Step 7
Gradually add the egg yolk mixture back to the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly. Cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
- Step 8
Pour the gluten-free custard into the pastry-lined muffin tins.
- Step 9
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops are beautifully caramelized.
- Step 10
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
24.6kcal (1.23%)
Protein
0.7g (1.38%)
Carbs
3.4g (1.23%)
Sugars
2.7g (5.38%)
Healthy Fat
0.3g
Unhealthy Fat
0.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the puff pastry is rolled out evenly to avoid uneven baking.
Whisk the egg yolks slowly to prevent them from curdling.
Allow the tarts to cool slightly before dusting with cinnamon and powdered sugar for a perfect finish.
FAQS
Can I use regular puff pastry instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can use regular puff pastry if you do not need the recipe to be gluten-free.
How do I prevent the custard from curdling?
Slowly whisk the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them and prevent curdling.
Can I make the custard in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the custard in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I know when the tarts are done baking?
The tops should be beautifully caramelized and the pastry should be golden brown.
What is the best way to store leftover tarts?
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Lucy Chesna
(@lchesna72)
Hello everyone, my name is Lucy. I am a recipe developer, and my mission is to create delicious, mostly healthy, easy, and balanced meals that use a variety of fresh and affordable ingredients. Some of my recipes will be gluten free, diary free, vegan, keto and more. You’ll find everything from one pan skillet dinners to colorful salads, comforting pasta recipes, the occasional treat, and more. Hello everyone, my name is Lucy. I am a recipe developer, and my mission is to create delicious, mostly healthy, easy, and balanced meals that...
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