Portuguese Custard Tarts – Pasteis de Nata

May 06, 2023May 6, 20230 1

A delectable pastry, Portuguese custard tarts, commonly known as Pasteis de Nata, boasts of a crispy and flaky crust filled with a luscious custard.

Portuguese Custard Tarts – Pasteis de Nata

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

326

Sugar

21g

Fat

20g

Originating from Portugal and said to be first baked by Catholic monks over 200 years ago, Pasteis de Nata is a globally renowned dessert today. The traditional recipe is a carefully guarded secret, with a limited number of bakers in Portugal still practicing the art of making the perfect custard tart. This recipe provides a simple and easy-to-follow method that can be made in the comfort of your home with ease. With its crispy, flaky crust and rich custard filling glittering with cinnamon and sugar, these tarts are must-try.

Instructions

1.	In a bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth.
2.	In a saucepan, add vanilla bean, sugar, and egg yolks. Whisk until combined.
3.	Over medium heat, add the milk mixture and stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
4.	Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover it with cling wrap, so it touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
5.	Preheat the oven to 220°C.
6.	On a flour-dusted surface, roll out the puff pastry, cut it into squares, and press them into greased muffin tins.
7.	Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork, and fill the tarts with a spoonful of custard.
8.	Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown.
9.	Serve the tarts hot with a dusting of cinnamon and icing sugar.

PROS

Custard tarts are an absolute delight with its flaky, buttery puff pastry and creamy, thick custard.
They are easy to bake and are well-loved by people of all ages.

CONS

The pastry contains a considerable amount of butter, which might not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions or high cholesterol levels.
The sugar content of the pastry and the custard is high and must be consumed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Custard tarts provide essential nutrients like protein and carbohydrates, while milk, a primary ingredient, is a rich source of calcium, necessary for building strong bones and teeth. However, the high sugar and fat content of the pastry and custard must be monitored, especially if included in a daily diet.

	1 cup milk
	3 tablespoons cornstarch
	1/2 vanilla bean
	1 cup white sugar
	6 egg yolks
	1 package frozen puff pastry , thawed