Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts
Lisbon's most iconic pastry — flaky, caramelised custard tarts that have been perfecting at Pastéis de Belém since 1837.
About This Portugal Recipe
Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts is one of the most beloved dishes from Portugal, deeply rooted in the country's culinary tradition. This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations and represents the very soul of Portugal's food culture.
The secret to an authentic Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts lies in the quality of ingredients and the patience of preparation. Every component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavours that makes this dish so special. When you cook this recipe, you're not just making food — you're recreating a piece of Portugal's rich culinary heritage.
How to Cook Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts — Complete Guide
Before You Begin
Read the entire recipe before starting. Gather and measure all ingredients (mise en place). This medium-difficulty dish takes approximately 40 min to prepare and 15 min to cook — allow 15 min extra time if this is your first attempt.
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
40 min
Cook Time
15 min
Serves
12 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step carefully. Steps are ordered for best results — don't skip ahead.
- 1
Make custard: warm milk with cinnamon and lemon peel
This is your starting step — proper preparation here ensures everything else goes smoothly.
- 2
Whisk flour, sugar and egg yolks together
- 3
Gradually add warm milk, cook until thick
- 4
Roll pastry tightly, slice into discs
- 5
Press into tart tins to form cups
- 6
Fill with cooled custard
- 7
Bake at 250°C for 12–15 minutes until spotted black
Final step — your Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts is almost ready to serve!
Chef's Tips & Tricks
Expert advice to help you nail this dish every time:
The highest oven temperature possible — they must caramelise
The black spots are desirable, not burnt
Eat within an hour of baking — they are best warm
Serving Suggestions
Pastel de Nata — Portuguese Custard Tarts is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the kitchen. In Portugal, this dish is traditionally served as a dessert and pairs beautifully with local side dishes and beverages. Consider serving it family-style for a truly authentic experience.
For the most authentic presentation, use traditional Portugal tableware if available. Garnish generously and serve immediately — this dish does not improve with waiting. Leftovers can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Ingredients
For 12 servings
- 500g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- For custard: 300ml milk, 100ml heavy cream, 120g sugar
- 30g flour
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Lemon peel
- Vanilla extract
Want to eat this in Portugal?
🇵🇹 Portugal Travel Guide