Portuguese Custard Cupcakes

Category: Decadent Desserts

These Portuguese custard cupcakes (Queijadas) feature a smooth, creamy center and crispy edges. Known for their sweet taste and custardy texture, they're a classic Portuguese dessert.

Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:35:06 GMT
A plate of freshly baked mini coconut tarts cooling on a wire rack. Save
A plate of freshly baked mini coconut tarts cooling on a wire rack. | kitchenscroll.com

These traditional Portuguese Queijadas bring custard perfection to your kitchen. Through testing I've mastered the balance of creamy centers golden edges and subtle lemon brightness creating treats that capture authentic flavor.

Pure Joy

Once you taste these custardy treats you'll understand their charm. That combination of smooth interior caramelized edges and gentle citrus creates something truly special.

Perfect Balance

Golden edges give slight crunch while centers stay creamy smooth. Fresh lemon adds brightness making each bite memorable.

Your Kitchen Essentials

Start with quality flour fresh eggs warm milk. Good butter creates richness while vanilla and lemon add delicate flavor. Each ingredient plays its part perfectly.

A cooling rack holds several golden-brown mini custard tarts, with stacked white plates visible in the background. Save
A cooling rack holds several golden-brown mini custard tarts, with stacked white plates visible in the background. | kitchenscroll.com

Creating Your Queijadas

Mix dry ingredients first combine warm butter milk cream eggs with sugar. Add flavors blend gently pour into tins. They bake until golden edges form and centers set slightly sunken showing they're perfect.

Making Them Perfect

Thorough mixing warm milk gentle handling create ideal texture. Don't worry about slight sinking it's part of their charm.

Mix It Up

Try traditional style without baking powder add orange zest or almond extract. Each variation brings new excitement.

Keep Them Fresh

Store room temperature briefly refrigerate longer. Serve slightly warm with coffee creating perfect treats.

A cooling rack holds several golden-brown mini cheesecakes with a smooth topping, set against a backdrop of stacked plates. Save
A cooling rack holds several golden-brown mini cheesecakes with a smooth topping, set against a backdrop of stacked plates. | kitchenscroll.com

No Fail Tips

Watch mixing fill tins evenly expect liquid batter. Everything comes together beautifully while baking.

Natural Beauty

Those sunken centers show authenticity whether using baking powder or not. Both styles create delicious results.

Plan Ahead

Make batter early bake fresh when needed. Gentle reheating brings back that fresh baked magic.

Serving Style

Present on pretty plates dust with sugar add lemon twists. Simple touches make them extra special.

A tray of freshly baked mini custard tarts cooling on a wire rack, with white plates in the background. Save
A tray of freshly baked mini custard tarts cooling on a wire rack, with white plates in the background. | kitchenscroll.com

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1 cup. Using 2½ cups instead of 3¼ cups will still result in delightful cupcakes.

→ How should I store these cupcakes?

Store them in the refrigerator. They can be served either chilled or at room temperature.

→ Why do the centers sink?

It's normal for these cupcakes to sink slightly in the center after baking. This is part of their traditional appearance.

→ How do I prevent batter splashing?

The batter is quite thin and can splash while mixing. Use medium-low speed and cover the bowl with a paper plate while mixing.

→ How full should I fill the muffin tins?

Fill the muffin tins about ¾ full for the perfect size custard cupcakes.

Portuguese Custard Cupcakes

Traditional Portuguese cupcakes with creamy custard centers and golden brown edges. Sweet, rich, and perfect for dessert lovers.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
38 minutes
Total Time Required
58 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Sweet Treats

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: Portuguese

Recipe Output: 30 Number of Servings (30 cupcakes)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Gather

Contains 01 items 8 tablespoons butter, chunked.
Contains 02 items 3½ cups whole milk.
Contains 03 items 1½ cups flour.
Contains 04 items ¼ teaspoon baking powder.
Contains 05 items 4 eggs.
Contains 06 items 3¼ cups sugar.
Contains 07 items 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Contains 08 items 2 lemons, zested.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease muffin pans for 30 cupcakes.

Step 02

Melt butter in pan, add milk until warm.

Step 03

Whisk flour with baking powder.

Step 04

Beat eggs, gradually add sugar, vanilla, zest. Alternate adding milk mixture and flour mixture.

Step 05

Fill pans ¾ full, bake 35-38 minutes until edges golden.

Important Tips

  1. Centers will sink slightly when cooling.
  2. Can reduce sugar to 2½ cups.
  3. Store in refrigerator.

Essential Tools

  • Muffin pans.
  • Wire whisk.
  • Lemon zester.

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Dairy.
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: ~
  • Fat Amount: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Protein Amount: ~