Today, custard tarts are found in various forms worldwide. The classic English custard tart features a shortcrust pastry filled with a smooth egg custard, sometimes topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Meanwhile, in Asia, the Portuguese pastel de nata is wildly popular, often enjoyed with coffee.

The dessert’s royal heritage remains a source of pride for bakers and food historians alike. Custard tarts continue to symbolize comfort, indulgence, and culinary refinement.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pastry:
   Combine the flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix. Slowly add cold water a little at a time until the dough just comes together. Wrap in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.
    

2. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    

3. Roll out the dough:
   Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thickness. Line a tart tin with the pastry, trimming any excess. Prick the base with a fork.
    

4. Blind bake:
   Place parchment paper over the pastry and fill with baking beans or rice. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and paper, then bake for another 5 minutes until the pastry is golden.
    

5. Prepare the custard:
   In a saucepan, heat the milk until just below boiling. In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to avoid curdling.
    

6. Fill and bake:
   Pour the custard into the pastry shell. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
    

7. Cool and serve:
   Let the tart cool completely. Sprinkle with extra nutmeg before serving.
    

Conclusion

Custard tart, with its centuries-old heritage and association with royalty, remains a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its rich, creamy filling nestled in a delicate pastry shell has delighted palates from medieval kings to modern-day food lovers. By making custard tart at home, you’re not just preparing a dessert—you’re continuing a royal tradition of culinary excellence. shutdown123