Portuguese Egg Tarts with Brown Sugar Boba

This recipe takes the rich, velvety custard of traditional Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts) and gives it a chewy, modern twist with Better Boba’s Classic Brown Sugar pearls. The warm boba adds a caramel depth and texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy custard and crispy pastry.
Ingredients
For the Tarts (Makes 12):
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1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
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1 cup heavy cream
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3/4 cup whole milk
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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5 egg yolks
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
For the Boba Topping:
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2 cups water
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2 tbsp brown sugar or honey (for soaking after cooking)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 12 circles to fit a standard muffin tin.
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Press each pastry round into a greased muffin cup, making sure it covers the bottom and sides. Chill while you make the filling.
Step 2: Make the Custard
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In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
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Heat gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (and lemon zest or cinnamon if using).
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Let the custard cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
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Spoon the custard into each pastry shell, filling about 3/4 full.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly blistered.
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Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Boba
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While the tarts bake, cook Better Boba pearls according to the package instructions.
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Once cooked, drain and soak the pearls in brown sugar syrup or honey for extra flavor.
Step 5: Top It Off!
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Once tarts are slightly cooled but still warm, spoon a generous amount of brown sugar boba on top of each tart.
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Optional: Drizzle with extra brown sugar syrup for extra indulgence.
Serving Tips
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Serve warm for the best flavor and texture combo.
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Pair with a strong iced coffee or milk tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
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Great for parties, dessert boards, or a fusion bakery menu!
Final Thoughts
These Portuguese Egg Tarts with Better Boba are a beautiful blend of classic and contemporary flavors. The creamy custard, flaky crust, and chewy brown sugar boba pearls create a unique bite that’s comforting, fun, and totally crave-worthy. Perfect for impressing guests—or just treating yourself!