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Queijadas (Portuguese Custard Cupcakes): A Traditional Portuguese Treat

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Queijadas are traditional Portuguese custard cupcakes that combine a creamy custard filling with fresh cheese and a tender, slightly sweet crust. Infused with cinnamon and lemon zest, these cupcakes offer an authentic taste of Portugal in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Custard Filling:

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup fresh cheese (Requeijão or ricotta)

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)

For the Crust:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Filling: In a saucepan, gently heat the whole milk with lemon zest and a pinch of cinnamon to infuse the flavors. Keep the heat low to avoid scalding the milk.
  2. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh cheese, and all-purpose flour until smooth and well combined.
  3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to prevent curdling. This will create a smooth, silky custard base. Set the custard filling aside.
  4. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and sugar. Mix gently until the dough comes together and is smooth.
  5. Roll out the dough and cut it into circles that are about the size of your cupcake tin molds. This will form the base for each cupcake, creating a tender, flaky crust.
  6. Assemble the Queijadas: Place each dough circle into the cupcake molds, pressing gently to cover the bottom and sides. Make sure the dough fits snugly in the molds.
  7. Pour the prepared custard filling into each crust-lined cup, filling them approximately three-quarters full to prevent overflow during baking.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the queijadas for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning of the custard.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the queijadas to cool slightly in the tins before carefully removing them. Serve them warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Notes

For added texture, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts or berries on top before baking.

If fresh cheese isn’t available, ricotta cheese makes an excellent substitute for Requeijão.

These are also great with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/queijadas-portuguese-custard-cupcakes/