Bake them in the hottest oven you have. That fierce heat blisters and scorches the custard top in dark spots while the pastry shatters crisp; a moderate oven just sets a pale, flat custard with none of the character.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Makes12 tarts
CuisinePortuguese
Cost$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for12tarts
Puff pastry
Rolled and coiled into the tin for the flaky, layered shell. An all-butter puff is best.
Can you make Pastel de Nata in an air fryer? — Sometimes
You can, but a custard needs gentle, even heat and usually a water bath the basket can’t give, so the top tends to set before the middle. Bake it in ramekins that fit and watch closely, or use the oven for a foolproof set.
Can you freeze Pastel de Nata? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Pastel de Nata ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Pastel de Nata gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Pastel de Nata vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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