Queijadas de Sintra
Queijadas de Sintra are traditional Portuguese cheese tarts with a crisp crust and a sweet, cinnamon-infused cheese filling. Originating from Sintra, these pastries have been enjoyed since the 13th century.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Muffin tin
- Food processor
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 cup fresh cheese such as ricotta or queijo fresco
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter and warm water gradually, mixing until a firm dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thin layer, approximately 1 mm thick. Cut out circles slightly larger than the muffin tin cavities.
- Press the dough circles into the greased muffin tin, ensuring they fit snugly. Set aside.
- In a food processor, blend the fresh cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg yolks, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Process until well combined and creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Fill each dough-lined muffin cavity with the cheese mixture, about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before removing from the tin.
Notes
- Serving Suggestion: Enjoy these tarts warm or at room temperature, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate and reheat slightly before serving.
- Cheese Variations: Traditional recipes use queijo fresco, but ricotta or a mild goat cheese can be suitable substitutes.