Easy Portuguese Baked Custard (Tigelada Recipe

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This Portuguese baked custard, known as tigelada, is a simple and creamy dessert made with just eggs, milk, and sugar. It’s similar to a classic egg custard or flan, but with a lighter texture and a caramelized top that forms naturally during baking.

Easy Portuguese Baked Custard in a clay bowl

This traditional Portuguese dessert has been passed down through generations and remains a beloved classic in Portugal. It is made with simple ingredients, has a wonderfully creamy texture, and an elegant presentation. Portuguese baked custard tart (Tigelada) has no secrets - you only need three basic ingredients: eggs, sugar, and milk to create this incredibly delicious Portuguese dessert.

If you want to enhance the flavor, you can flavor the milk with lemon zest and a cinnamon stick, and then finish the dessert by serving it sprinkled with cinnamon powder for an extra touch of aroma and warmth. With just 3 ingredients, this classic Portuguese dessert is sure to be a hit during any festive season. One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to make (5 minutes prep).

If you enjoy simple, traditional desserts, we recommend trying our delicious and creamy recipes such as 2-Ingredient camel's drool, Creme brulee, Portuguese rice pudding (Arroz doce), Sericaia (Portuguese dessert), and many other classic Portuguese sweets available on Food From Portugal. You can also find this recipe featured in our list of 15 Portuguese Desserts to Try.

What is Tigelada?

Tigelada is a traditional Portuguese dessert made by baking a simple custard mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar. It is one of the most popular and oldest desserts in Portugal, known for its rustic appearance and creamy interior.

Tigelada in a clay bowl

Ingredients for Portuguese Baked Custard (Tigelada Recipe – 3 Ingredients)

Here you'll find all the ingredients needed to make this recipe:

Milk and eggs - Adds creaminess and flavor to the recipe.
Granulated sugar - To sweeten and flavor.

Below you’ll find the correct measurement of all ingredients and the step-by-step guide for this recipe.

How to Make Easy Portuguese Baked Custard (Tigelada Recipe – 3 Ingredients)

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 150ºC (300ºF).

Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the whole eggs.

Step 3: Add the sugar and beat lightly. Pour in the milk and beat a little more (pour the milk slowly).

Step 4: Pour the mixture into small clay bowls (or one a large bowl).

Step 5: Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Turn off the oven, let cool to room temperature and serve.

Tips

1. If you’d like to enhance the flavor of the recipe, season the milk with lemon zest and a cinnamon stick.

2. After removing the dessert from the oven, allow it to cool completely, then finish by sprinkling it with cinnamon powder before serving.

3. Place the oven rack in the middle position so that the custard browns evenly and cooks faster and more consistently.

FAQs

Can I make baked custard tart without cream?

Yes. This traditional dessert is made only with milk, which makes it lighter compared to many other custards.

Why did my custard tart turn out watery?

It may not be fully baked completely or may not have cooled enough.

What is Portuguese baked custard similar to?

It's very similar to Flan, Egg custard, and Crème Brûlée.

Can I store in the refrigerator?

Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 days for the best freshness and texture.