As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to explore and indulge in the rich culinary traditions that make this time of the year so special. Among the treasures of my favorite Portuguese family desserts, one gem stands out – Queijadas de Leite. These delectable milk custard tarts encapsulate the warmth and sweetness of the season, making them a delightful addition to your holiday table.
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Equipment
- Kitchen Aid Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- 2 Cupcake Pans (12 cup)
- 2 Cookie Sheets
- 2 Cooling Racks
Ingredients
- 7 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 6 cups of milk
- 1 tsp of Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup of salted butter, melted
- Cinnamon
- Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a bowl beat eggs, then add the milk and Vanilla Extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar and flour.
- Add dry ingredients, by the spoonful, into the bowl of eggs, milk, and extract to avoid any lumps.
- While continuously mixing add melted butter into the mixture.
- Make sure to reach the bottom of the bowl making sure that all ingredients all well incorporated.
Baking Queijadas de Leite
- Using a cooking spray or butter, grease your cupcake pan.
- For easy pouring, using a liquid measuring cup, pour batter into the cupcake pan filling it almost to the rim.
- Place the cupcake pans in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown. The tarts will grow almost like a souffle and then deflate as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Allow the Queijadas de Leite to cool completely before serving.
- When cooled sprinkle ground cinnamon and powdered sugar over tarts.
Tips and Tricks
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest on top before serving.
- Adjust sugar levels to your preference; some like it sweeter, while others may prefer a more subtle sweetness.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or citrus, for a unique twist.
- Adding lemon zest to the batter would also be a great flavor enhancer.
- Using different dairy or non-dairy ingredients can also help enhance the flavors of this recipe. Read what I experimented with below!
How to Store
Queijadas de Leite can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze them, ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn and enjoy them within a month.
How to Serve
Serve these delightful treats at room temperature, allowing the custard to reach its full creamy texture. Queijadas de Leite make an excellent accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea, or they can be a stand-alone dessert that will surely impress your guests.
For an extra touch of warmth and an intensified soothing flavor, try placing your Queijadas de Leite in an air fryer, creating a delightful crispy exterior that envelops the creamy center, adding a new dimension to this traditional Portuguese treat.
Elevate the flavors of your Queijadas de Leite by experimenting with different kinds of milk, whether dairy or non-dairy, to add a delightful twist to this traditional Portuguese treat. Opting for whole milk can contribute a rich and creamy texture, enhancing the custard filling. Alternatively, you might explore the nuances of flavor that come with using coconut or almond milk, imparting a subtle nuttiness that complements the sweetness of the dessert.
I experimented once with different milk products because I ran out of milk. I used 4 cups of milk, 1 cup of half and half, and 1 cup of almond milk and they came out delicious!
As you embark on your culinary journey to create Queijadas de Leite, remember that you’re not just making a dessert; you’re crafting a piece of Portuguese tradition. These delectable custard tarts, with their creamy filling and buttery crust, embody the essence of the holiday season in Portugal. Share the joy and warmth of this traditional treat with your loved ones, and let the spirit of the season come alive with every bite. Happy baking!
Have fun with this recipe. Feel free to share what you have done in the comments below or share a picture of you enjoying this delicious meal!
Bom apetite! Enjoy your meal!
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Queijadas de Leite
Ingredients
- 7 eggs beaten
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 6 cups of milk
- 1 tsp of Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup of salted butter melted
- Cinnamon
- Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a bowl beat eggs, then add the milk and Vanilla Extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar and flour.
- Add dry ingredients, by the spoonful, into the bowl of eggs, milk, and extract to avoid any lumps.
- While continuously mixing add melted butter into the mixture.
- Make sure to reach the bottom of the bowl making sure that all ingredients all well incorporated.
Baking Queijadas de Leite
- Using a cooking spray or butter, grease your cupcake pan.
- For easy pouring, using a liquid measuring cup, pour batter into the cupcake pan filling it almost to the rim.
- Place the cupcake pans in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown. The tarts will grow almost like a souffle and then deflate as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Allow the Queijadas de Leite to cool completely before serving.
- When cooled sprinkle ground cinnamon and powdered sugar over tarts.
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