Portuguese custard tarts, also known as Pastéis de Nata, are famous for their flaky pastry and creamy custard filling. A step-by-step guide on how to make these delectable tarts at home:
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry (or homemade if you prefer)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Lemon peel or cinnamon stick (for flavor, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Custard Filling:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar and flour.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the lemon peel or cinnamon stick if using.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the heat.
- Remove the lemon peel or cinnamon stick, if used, and let the custard cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle about 12x16 inches.
- Starting from the shorter side, tightly roll up the pastry into a log.
3. Slice the Pastry:
- Cut the pastry log into 12 equal-sized slices, each about 1 inch wide.
4. Form the Tart Shells:
- Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or cooking spray.
- Take one slice of pastry and place it in a muffin cup. Use your fingers to press it down and spread it evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the cup. Repeat with the remaining slices.
5. Fill the Tart Shells:
- Fill each pastry shell with the cooled custard filling, leaving a little space at the top for the custard to puff up during baking.
6. Bake:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard has browned spots on top.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the Portuguese custard tarts from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes.
- Carefully transfer the tarts to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally, dust the tops with powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve your homemade Portuguese custard tarts warm or at room temperature. They're best when enjoyed on the same day they're made.
These pastries are a delightful treat with a rich, creamy center and crispy, flaky pastry. Enjoy the taste of Portugal in your own kitchen!