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Nigella Lawson Portuguese Custard Tarts

Nigella Lawson Portuguese Custard Tarts

Nigella Lawson’s Portuguese Custard Tarts Recipe features a crisp, buttery puff pastry filled with a creamy custard flavored with vanilla and lemon zest. These tarts are traditionally baked until the custard is slightly caramelized on top, creating a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

For the Custard:

  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the pastry into the muffin cups.
  • Heat the Milk and Cream: Combine milk and cream in a saucepan and bring to a simmer.
  • Mix Sugar and Cornstarch: In a bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
  • Combine with Egg Yolks: Add egg yolks to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.
  • Temper the Egg Mixture: Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  • Cook the Custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
  • Fill the Pastry Shells: Spoon the custard into the prepared pastry shells.
  • Bake the Tarts: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the custard is set and the tops are golden brown.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool in the tin before serving.