Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pastéis de Nata)

Experience the rich and creamy flavors of Portugal through these delightful custard tarts. A crispy, flaky pastry shell encases a luscious custard filling, delicately caramelized on top for an appealing mix of textures. This traditional Portuguese treat is enjoyed at breakfast, dessert, or anytime a sweet indulgence is desired. The authentic recipe offers a taste of the streets of Lisbon with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
• 6 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup flour, for dusting
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface and cut into 12 circles to fit a muffin tin.
3. Place the pastry circles into the muffin tin, pressing gently to line the bottom and sides.
4. In a saucepan, heat the whole milk, heavy cream, and vanilla bean until just simmering.
5. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy.
6. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
7. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Remove the vanilla bean and pour the prepared custard into the pastry shells.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the custard is set and the tops are caramelized to a golden color.
10. Allow the tarts to cool in the tin, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Keywords: Creamy, Caramelized, Breakfast, Indulgence, Dessert

Spice Rack: Vanilla Bean

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