Queijadas
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.
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.