A Taste of Portugal: Queijadas Overview

Queijadas are traditional Portuguese custard cupcakes, loved for their smooth, creamy texture and sweet, delicate flavor. These mini treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy tea-time snack or a delightful dessert to impress your guests. With a hint of coconut for added flavor, these Queijadas are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup of milk
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of flour
• 1/2 cup of grated coconut (optional)
• 1/2 cup of butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Step-by-step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, sugar, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Add the Eggs:
Add the eggs to the mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth and airy batter.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you like a bit of texture, now is the time to add the grated coconut. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until combined.

5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise while baking.

6. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the Queijadas to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them warm or at room temperature with a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Tips and Techniques

• Coconut Variation: If you prefer a more traditional Queijada, skip the grated coconut for a smoother texture. However, the coconut adds a delightful tropical twist!
• Perfect Consistency: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair these delightful custard cupcakes with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate snack or dessert experience.

Why You’ll Love This Queijadas Recipe

These Queijadas are a wonderful blend of sweet, creamy custard and a delicate, golden crust. Perfect for any gathering or simply enjoying as a treat with family and friends, Queijadas offer a taste of Portuguese tradition in each bite. The recipe is simple yet indulgent, making it a must-try for all baking enthusiasts!