For the pastry dough, you will need: - 2 cups of all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed - 1/4 cup of water - 1/4 tsp of salt For the custard filling, you will need: - 2 cups of whole milk - 1 cinnamon stick - 1 lemon peel - 6 egg yolks - 1/2 cup of granulated sugar - 1/4 cup of cornstarch - 1/4 cup of water
Instructions
Making the Pastry Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. 2. Using your fingers, rub the chilled butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. 3. Add the water and knead the dough until it comes together into a ball. 4. Flatten the dough into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. 5. Place it in the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Making the Custard Filling
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. 2. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Add the cornstarch and water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth. 4. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel from the milk mixture and gradually add it to the egg mixture, whisking constantly. 5. Once fully combined, pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. 6. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Assembling and Baking the Tarts
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. 3. Cut the dough into circles using a 3-inch cookie cutter, and place them into a muffin tin. 4. Press the dough into the tin and shape it to fit the mold. 5. Fill each pastry shell with the cooled custard filling, about 3/4 full. 6. Bake the tarts for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling has set. 7. Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. 8. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Nutrition
One Portuguese custard tart contains approximately 230 calories, 13 grams of fat, 23 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein. While they may not be the healthiest option, they are a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.
Conclusion
Making Portuguese custard tarts can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with this detailed recipe and instructions, you can easily create your own delicious tarts at home. Whether you're a pastry novice or an experienced baker, these sweet and creamy tarts are sure to impress your friends and family. So, why not give them a try and enjoy a taste of Portugal in your own home?