Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Queijadas are an irresistible treat that combines a crispy outer shell with a smooth, custardy interior. The flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon come together beautifully in these small, perfectly portioned desserts. Unlike traditional custards, the texture is slightly firmer but still melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Portuguese custard cupcakes will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
-
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
For the Custard Filling:
-
1 cup whole milk
-
1/2 cup heavy cream
-
3/4 cup sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest
-
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
-
Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Pastry:
-
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with cupcake liners.
-
Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into small squares that are big enough to line the muffin tin. Gently press the pastry squares into the muffin cups, ensuring they line the bottom and sides of each cup.
Make the Custard Filling:
-
Heat the milk and cream: In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. Remove from heat when ready.
-
Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, flour, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
-
Combine the milk mixture with the eggs: Slowly pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs. Once everything is combined, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
Assemble and Bake:
-
Fill the pastry cups: Pour the custard mixture into each pastry-lined muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
-
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden brown. The tops should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.
-
Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the Queijadas to cool for 10-15 minutes in the tin. If desired, you can also refrigerate them for a few hours to let the custard firm up further.
-
Serve: Once cooled, gently remove the Queijadas from the muffin tin. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for an extra touch, if desired.
-
Enjoy: Serve these Portuguese custard cupcakes as a delicious dessert or snack!
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 12
-
Preparation time: 15 minutes
-
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
-
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
-
Fruit-filled Queijadas: Add a spoonful of fruit jam (such as strawberry or raspberry) to the bottom of each pastry shell before filling with the custard mixture for a fruity twist.
-
Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or even a hint of ginger to give the custard a unique flavor.
-
Almonds: Add finely chopped almonds or almond extract to the custard filling for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
-
Dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk and coconut cream.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Store leftover Queijadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
-
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry if you prefer. However, store-bought puff pastry is a convenient option that saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Queijadas ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator. They can be made a day or two ahead and will still taste great.
3. Can I freeze these custard cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I use other fillings besides custard?
Yes, you can experiment with other fillings like chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or even a cream cheese filling for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
If you need an egg-free version, you can try using egg replacers such as aquafaba (chickpea brine) or a commercial egg replacer. The texture may differ slightly, but it should still work well.
6. Can I use a different type of pastry?
If you prefer, you can use shortcrust pastry instead of puff pastry. It will give a more crumbly base, but the result will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Queijadas are a delightful and decadent Portuguese dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These custard-filled cupcakes have a deliciously smooth center and a golden, flaky crust that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge, these sweet treats will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy these authentic Portuguese delights right in your own home!
Queijadas: Portuguese Custard Cupcakes
Queijadas are delicious Portuguese custard cupcakes filled with a rich, creamy custard and encased in a golden puff pastry. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, offering a combination of smooth custard and a crispy, buttery crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Portuguese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 8 oz marinara sauce (optional, for topping)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with cupcake liners.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into small squares big enough to line the muffin tin. Press the pastry squares into the muffin cups.
- In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, flour, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
- Fill the pastry cups with the custard mixture, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden brown. The tops should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.
- Allow the Queijadas to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes. Refrigerate for a few hours to let the custard firm up further, if desired.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon, if desired, and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding a few drops of almond extract to the custard filling.These custard cupcakes can be topped with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra indulgence.Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Queijada
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg