Description
These delicate Portuguese-style lemon custard tarts are light, slightly chewy, and infused with bright citrus flavor. Baked in muffin tins, they form a thin golden crust with a creamy center—perfect for a light dessert or teatime treat.
Ingredients
Dry ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet ingredients:
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2️⃣ Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3️⃣ Add wet ingredients: Add melted butter, eggs, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined. The batter will be thin.
4️⃣ Fill the tin: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each about three-quarters full.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the centers are set. They will form a light crust on top and a custardy center.
6️⃣ Cool: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7️⃣ Finish and serve: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve.
Notes
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Texture: The pies form a light crust on the outside while staying soft and custardy in the center.
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Batter Tip: The batter will be thin—this is normal. Just pour carefully into the muffin tin.
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Lemon Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor; avoid bottled juice if possible.
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Serving: Great chilled or at room temperature. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings.
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min