A question we’re often asked at our locations is, “Is it like an egg custard?” To answer with accuracy and integrity, we’ve put together this key guide.
Let’s compare the traditional English egg custard with Portugal’s creamy classic, pastéis de nata. We’ll explore the nuances of each, so by the end, you’ll feel like a custard connoisseur.
Key Differences Between Pastéis de Nata and English Egg Custard
Let’s explore the qualities that define the personality of these two iconic desserts. By the end, you’ll be able to recognise each at a glance and appreciate what makes their flavours, textures, and styles uniquely their own.
Pastéis de Nata
Pastéis de nata are made with laminated puff pastry, which bakes into distinct, crisp layers that contrast sharply with the soft custard filling. The custard itself is rich and creamy, often infused with subtle notes of vanilla or citrus zest, and baked at a very high temperature. This intense heat creates the signature caramelised, blistered surface that defines the pastry. Pastéis de nata are traditionally served as individual tarts, intended to be eaten warm and fresh from the oven and sometimes served with a sprinkle of cinnamon or icing sugar.
English Egg Custard
English egg custard typically uses shortcrust pastry, resulting in a sturdier, more crumbly base designed to support a softer filling. The custard is smoother and lighter in texture, with a gently set consistency and a restrained sweetness. It is usually flavoured simply, often finished with a light dusting of nutmeg, and baked at a lower temperature to avoid browning. English custard can be served as individual tarts or as a larger baked dish, emphasising comfort and subtlety over contrast.
So, Are There Similarities Between the Two?
Essentially, both desserts are egg-based custards baked in pastry and are commonly enjoyed as a sweet treat or dessert. Each also holds cultural significance in its home country, where it is regarded as a classic comfort food with deep-rooted traditions.
However, despite these shared foundations, they sit at very different ends of the taste spectrum, offering distinctly contrasting flavour and texture experiences.
Cutting into a Portuguese tart reveals a creamy custard filling wrapped in perfectly flaky pastry
Why Pastéis de Nata Stand Out as the winner!
Pastéis de nata are distinguished by their signature caramelised top, flaky puff pastry, and the slight crispness around the edges of the custard. These qualities make them more visually appealing and give a unique contrast in texture that English custard tarts do not usually have.
A Custard Conclusion
We value the traditional English egg custard and its place at the table — though we may be a little biased towards the Portuguese version! But don’t just take our word for it — judge for yourself and send us your feedback. You can find us at food festivals across the UK, or go big and treat yourself to a few boxes which you can purchase from us here online.