These little Portuguese custard tarts are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside—an absolute treat! Pastéis de Nata are iconic in Portuguese pastry, best enjoyed warm with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar. It’s a simple yet refined dessert, perfect with coffee or as a quick, sweet bite anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and authentic this recipe is. It only calls for a few basic ingredients that I usually have in my kitchen. The flaky puff pastry paired with a silky lemon-scented custard is simply irresistible. And the best part? I can make them ahead and reheat them for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience anytime.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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4 egg yolks
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500 ml milk
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150 g sugar
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2 tablespoons flour
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zest of 1 lemon
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1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven to 220°C (about 430°F).
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In a saucepan, I mix the flour and sugar, then gradually add the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
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I whisk in the egg yolks and lemon zest, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
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I heat it over medium heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens. Then I remove it from the heat.
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I cut out circles from the puff pastry and place them into muffin tins.
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I fill each pastry cup with the custard mixture.
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I bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden.
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I let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 Pastéis de Nata.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Calories: About 180 kcal per serving
Variations
When I feel like switching things up, I add a pinch of cinnamon directly into the custard. Sometimes I swap the lemon zest for vanilla to give a more mellow flavor. For a rustic twist, I even use plant-based milk like almond or oat—it slightly changes the texture but still tastes amazing.
storage/reheating
I store the Pastéis de Nata in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days. To keep the crust crisp, I reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes before serving. The microwave works too, but it softens the pastry a bit.
FAQs
What is the origin of Pastéis de Nata?
Pastéis de Nata originated in Portugal, specifically at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, Lisbon. It’s a traditional recipe dating back to the 19th century.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, I can freeze the baked tarts. I just let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, I reheat them in the oven straight from frozen.
Can I use homemade pastry?
Absolutely. When I have more time, I like to make my own puff pastry for an extra flaky result.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, I can substitute the milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk. The custard turns out slightly different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to serve them?
I like serving them warm, with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top. Paired with an espresso, they’re a real delight.
Conclusion
Pastéis de Nata are one of those little wonders that are easy to make yet always impress. With their creamy center, golden crust, and delicate lemon flavor, they bring a taste of Portugal right into my kitchen.
Print
Pastéis de Nata
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 tarts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pastéis de Nata are iconic Portuguese custard tarts with a crisp puff pastry shell and a creamy, lemon-scented custard filling. Served warm with cinnamon or powdered sugar, they’re a perfect treat any time of day.
Ingredients
4 egg yolks
500 ml milk
150 g sugar
2 tablespoons flour
Zest of 1 lemon
1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).
- In a saucepan, mix flour and sugar, then gradually add milk while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Whisk in egg yolks and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens. Remove from heat.
- Cut out circles from the puff pastry and press into muffin tins.
- Fill each pastry shell with the custard mixture.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until tops are golden and caramelized.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Add cinnamon to the custard for a warm twist.
- Swap lemon zest for vanilla extract for a mellow flavor.
- Use plant-based milk like almond or oat for a dairy-free version.
- Make your own puff pastry for an extra flaky result.
- Serve warm for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Portuguese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
