Queijadas

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Queijadas are classic Portuguese custard cupcakes known for their creamy centers, lightly chewy texture, and beautifully caramelized edges. Often described as Portuguese milk tarts, these delicate treats strike the perfect balance between rich sweetness and subtle citrus flavor. If you love silky custard desserts that melt in your mouth, this traditional favorite deserves a place in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 3 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 4 large eggs
• 3 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 2 fresh lemons

Instructions for Queijadas

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease standard muffin pans (about 30 cups).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk and warm gently, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat once warm.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs for about 1 minute until slightly frothy.
5. Gradually add the sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until fully incorporated.
7. Slowly pour in one cup of the warm milk-butter mixture while mixing on medium speed.
8. Add half of the flour mixture, followed by another cup of milk, mixing gently.
9. Add the remaining flour, then the rest of the milk. Beat until the batter is smooth and fully blended.
10. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the thin batter.
11. Bake for 35–38 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
12. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. The centers may sink slightly—this is normal.

Pro Tips

• Mix thoroughly to prevent separation and ensure a smooth custard texture.
• Use whole milk for the creamiest results.
• Expect a thin batter—pour slowly to avoid splashing.
• Let the queijadas cool completely for the best flavor and texture.

Why This Recipe Works

• Delivers a classic Portuguese dessert with authentic flavor
• Creates a contrast between creamy centers and caramelized edges
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or make-ahead desserts

Substitutions & Variations

• Reduce sweetness: Cut sugar down to 2½ cups if preferred.
• Citrus twist: Swap lemon zest for orange zest.
• Dairy-free option: Try almond or coconut milk with similar fat content (test a half batch first).
• Traditional style: Omit baking powder for a flatter, denser custard.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

• Make-Ahead: Bake up to 2 days in advance.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature; reheating is not recommended.

Serving Ideas for Queijadas

• Dust lightly with powdered sugar
• Serve with fresh berries or citrus slices
• Pair with espresso or strong coffee
• Add to dessert platters for special occasions

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: ~180
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~6g
• Sugar: ~24g

(Estimates may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do queijadas sink in the center?

This is completely normal and part of their custard-like nature.

Can I use paper muffin liners?

No. The liquid batter causes liners to stick to the cupcakes.

Are queijadas served warm or cold?

They’re delicious both ways, but many prefer them chilled.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Test a small batch first.

Do queijadas contain cheese?

Despite the name, many versions—like this one—do not include cheese.

Queijadas are a timeless Portuguese dessert that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Their creamy custard texture, golden edges, and bright citrus notes make them unforgettable. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed as an everyday indulgence, these custard cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.

Queijadas

Ovalioekrg

Queijadas are traditional Portuguese custard cupcakes with creamy centers, lightly chewy texture, and beautifully caramelized edges. Subtly flavored with lemon zest and vanilla, these milk-based custard treats are simple, elegant, and deeply comforting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Portuguese

Servings 30 custard cupcakes

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• standard muffin pans
• medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• whisk or hand mixer
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 3 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 4 large eggs
• 3 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 lemons, zested

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease standard muffin pans, about 30 cups total.
• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk and warm gently, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat once warm.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, beat the eggs for about 1 minute until slightly frothy. Gradually add the sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until fully incorporated.
• Slowly pour in one cup of the warm milk mixture while mixing. Add half of the flour mixture, then another cup of milk, mixing gently.
• Add the remaining flour followed by the rest of the milk. Beat until the batter is smooth and fully blended.
• Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the thin batter. Bake for 35–38 minutes until edges are golden and centers are just set.
• Remove from oven and allow queijadas to cool completely. Centers may sink slightly, which is normal.

Notes

Queijadas are meant to have slightly sunken centers due to their custard-like texture. Always grease muffin pans very well, as the thin batter can stick easily. Flavor and texture improve once fully cooled, and many prefer them chilled.

Keyword custard cupcakes, milk tarts, portuguese custard cupcakes, portuguese dessert, queijadas

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