Pastéis de Nata, also known as Portuguese custard tarts, are a beloved pastry originating from Portugal. These creamy and flaky tarts are perfect for any occasion, from a casual coffee break to a festive dessert table. Here’s a detailed recipe to bring this classic Portuguese delight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 package (500g) puff pastry
- Flour for dusting
For the Custard:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
Preparing the Pastry
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
- Cut the pastry into circles large enough to fit into the wells of a muffin tin, with a little overhang.
- Gently press the pastry circles into the muffin tin, ensuring they fit snugly. Set aside.
Making the Custard
- Heat the Milk and Cream:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and cinnamon stick.
- Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and set aside to steep.
- Mix the Flour and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and all-purpose flour until well combined.
- Combine the Mixtures:
- Remove the cinnamon stick from the milk and cream mixture.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the sugar and flour mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook the Custard:
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Egg Yolks:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly add the egg yolks to the custard mixture, whisking continuously until well incorporated.
- Stir in the lemon zest.
Assembling and Baking
- Fill the Pastry Shells:
- Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pastry shells, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Bake the Tarts:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set with a slight wobble in the center.
- Cool the Tarts:
- Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the tarts to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
- Serve:
- Serve the Pastéis de Nata warm or at room temperature.
- Dust with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.
Variations and Tips
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for additional flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Use orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
- Mini Tarts: Use mini muffin tins to create bite-sized versions of Pastéis de Nata.
Nutritional Benefits
Pastéis de Nata are a treat best enjoyed in moderation. They provide a delightful mix of carbohydrates, fats, and protein from the eggs and dairy.
Embracing Tradition
Pastéis de Nata are a quintessential Portuguese pastry, enjoyed by people around the world. Making these tarts at home allows you to experience a taste of Portugal and enjoy a sweet, creamy treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Try this authentic Pastéis de Nata recipe and savor the rich, creamy flavors of these traditional Portuguese custard tarts. Whether for a special celebration or a simple indulgence, these tarts are sure to delight your taste buds.