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–+ servings
Cheese Tartlets

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.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Portuguese
Servings 12 tarts
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 5gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 40mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword Portuguese cheese tarts, Queijadas de Sintra, Traditional Portuguese desserts
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