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Lemon Pasteis de Nata

Creamy and zesty custard tarts with a flaky crust, a delightful twist on the classic Portuguese pastry, adding a bright lemon flavor.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Portuguese
Servings 24 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 roll of puff pastry about 14 ounces, thawed if frozen
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar
  • Cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut and roll into logs, then into 24 pieces. Press each piece into muffin cups to form pastry shells.
  • In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and flour. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Temper eggs by gradually whisking in hot milk mixture. Pour egg mixture into saucepan.
  • Return to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Do not boil. Cool slightly for 10 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour warm lemon custard into pastry shells, filling almost to the top.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until pastry is golden brown and custard is set with dark spots on top.
  • Cool in muffin tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon if desired.