Portuguese Egg Tarts

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Custard**: Start by making the custard filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, salt, and cinnamon stick (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to steam, but not boil.

2. **Whisk the Egg Yolks**: While the milk and cream are heating, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the custard and give it that silky texture.

3. **Temper the Egg Yolks**: Once the milk mixture is hot (but not boiling), slowly pour a small amount into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This helps to gently warm up the yolks and prevent them from scrambling. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture while continuing to whisk.

4. **Thicken the Custard**: Return the custard mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to the consistency of heavy cream. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick, if used. If desired, add the lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Let the custard cool while you prepare the pastry.

5. **Prepare the Pastry Shells**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, roll out the sheets and cut them into circles large enough to fit your muffin tin. Lightly grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. Carefully fit each circle of puff pastry into the muffin cups, pressing them gently into the sides to form a tart shell.

6. **Fill the Tarts**: Once the custard has cooled slightly, spoon or pour the custard mixture into each pastry shell, filling them nearly to the top. Be careful not to overfill, as the custard will expand slightly while baking.

7. **Bake the Tarts**: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp, and the custard is set with a slight golden brown color on top. The edges of the pastry should be crispy and flaky, while the custard should remain creamy inside.

8. **Cool and Serve**: Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. The tarts can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a little powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving.

### Why You’ll Love Portuguese Egg Tarts:

1. **Crispy and Buttery Pastry**: The puff pastry in these egg tarts creates a flaky, buttery crust that is simply irresistible. When baked, it rises beautifully, creating layers of light and crisp goodness that perfectly complement the smooth custard filling.

2. **Rich and Creamy Custard**: The egg custard is smooth, rich, and delicately sweet with just the right balance of vanilla, cinnamon, and optional lemon zest. It’s the star of the tart, providing that creamy texture everyone loves.

3. **Perfectly Bite-Sized**: These tarts are the perfect size for a sweet snack or dessert. Their small, delicate nature makes them ideal for sharing or serving at parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying on your own with a hot cup of coffee.

4. **Authentic Flavor**: While variations of egg tarts exist across the world (including in Macau and China), these **Pastéis de Nata** are an authentic taste of Portugal. The combination of creamy custard and flaky pastry will transport you straight to the heart of Lisbon.

5. **Easy to Make**: Though these tarts may seem like a treat only for expert bakers, they are surprisingly easy to make. With store-bought puff pastry and a simple custard recipe, you can achieve delicious results with minimal effort.

### Tips for Success:

– **Use Good Puff Pastry**: The quality of the puff pastry can make a big difference. Look for a high-quality, all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and texture.
– **Don’t Overfill**: Be sure to leave a little room at the top of the pastry shell when adding the custard. Overfilling may cause the custard to spill over during baking.
– **Cool Before Serving**: While these tarts are delicious warm, they will also keep well at room temperature. Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the custard to set properly.
– **Get Creative with Flavor**: If you want to put your own twist on the classic recipe, try adding a little splash of orange blossom water or a few drops of vanilla extract to the custard for added flavor.

### Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe:

Portuguese Egg Tarts are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, crispy and creamy, making them an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re indulging in a warm pastry with your morning coffee or serving them at your next gathering, these tarts will definitely be the star of the show. Their delicate flavor and elegant presentation make them a beloved pastry worldwide, and now you can easily enjoy them from the comfort of your own home!

So, why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious **Portuguese Egg Tarts**—a sweet bite of Portugal, right in your kitchen. Enjoy!