Our full recipe guide on how to make Pasteis de Nata the most popular food in Portugal.
Pastéis de Nata, also known as Portuguese custard tarts, are delicious pastries with a creamy custard filling and a crisp, flaky crust. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make them, along with tips and nutritional information.
Read Here Best Traditional Portuguese Dishes and Best breakfast in Portugal
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTUGAL
There are cheap hotels available for you at a starting price of €20-25. Luxurious hotels in another option for your accommodation in Portugal, the price can range from €90-up.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
How to Make Pasteis de Nata
Pasteis de Nata Recipe Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 package of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
For the Custard:
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Cinnamon stick (optional)
Get the best deals for your home and kitchen needs
Step By Step How to Make Pasteis de Nata
Prepare the Dough
Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut the pastry into circles slightly larger than your muffin tin wells. Fit the pastry circles into the wells of a greased muffin tin, pressing the dough against the sides.
Make the Custard
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and lemon zest. Heat until just below boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. Gradually add the egg yolks, mixing until smooth.
Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Add the vanilla extract and cinnamon stick (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Pour the custard into the prepared pastry shells, filling them about three-quarters full. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are browned and the pastry is crisp. Allow the tarts to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips To Make Pasteis de Nata
For the best results, use high-quality puff pastry. If using store-bought, ensure it is fully thawed before rolling out. Make sure to whisk constantly when cooking the custard to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
Baking at a high temperature helps achieve the characteristic blistered tops of traditional Pastéis de Nata. Allow the tarts to cool slightly in the muffin tin before removing to prevent breaking the pastry.
How Many Calories Have Pasteis de Nata
Calories: 200-250 per tart
Protein: 3-4 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
Fat: 12-15 grams
Fiber: 0-1 gram
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.