Delicious Queijadas: Easy Portuguese Custard Cupcakes Recipe

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s a certain joy that fills the air when sweets are baking in the oven, and today, I want to share that delight with you through a gem of Portuguese cuisine: Queijadas. These charming custard cupcakes bring together the comforting richness of creamy custard and a zesty kick from fresh lemon, making them an irresistible treat. Just imagine the golden-brown edges with a silky center that melts in your mouth each bite feels like a celebration.

I first discovered Queijadas during a delightful trip to the charming streets of Sintra, where they seemed to appear in every café. Whether you re looking for a simple dessert to impress your guests or a sweet bite to accompany your coffee, these cupcakes are the answer. With minimal ingredients and an easy preparation process, you too can bring a taste of Portugal into your kitchen. So let s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why are Queijadas so delightful?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these delicious custard cupcakes without breaking a sweat.

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The balance of creamy custard and zesty lemon elevates your dessert game with every bite.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as an afternoon treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress loved ones.

Quick Preparation: In less than an hour, you can enjoy freshly baked Queijadas, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous cravings.

Versatile Variations: Customize them by swapping lemon zest for orange or adding a hint of spice like cinnamon to make them your own!

Dive into the world of Portuguese desserts with this easy, mouthwatering recipe!

Queijadas Ingredients

Here s what you ll need to create these delightful Portuguese custard cupcakes!

For the Batter

• Eggs Provide structure and richness to the custard; use large room temperature eggs for the best texture.
• Sugar Adds sweetness and helps create a light, airy texture when beaten with eggs; feel free to substitute with a sugar alternative if desired.
• Butter Contributes moisture and flavor; use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.
• Milk Provides creaminess; whole milk is preferred for richness but can be substituted with a non-dairy milk for a lactose-free version.
• All-Purpose Flour Serves as the base that gives structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free variation.
• Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent to help the cupcakes rise.
• Vanilla Extract Adds aromatic flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste, but imitation vanilla can work in a pinch.
• Lemon Zest Provides a fresh citrus note that balances sweetness; substitute with orange zest for a different flavor profile.

Get ready to impress with these easy, flavorful Queijadas!

How to Make Queijadas

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Don t forget to prepare your muffin pans by spraying them with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan, gently melt the butter and warm the milk together over low heat. Once combined, set the mixture aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until they re fully incorporated. This step helps to avoid any lumps in your batter!

4. Beat Eggs: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until it becomes light and airy, which will give your cupcakes a lovely texture.

5. Add Flavor: Next, mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. The fresh lemon zest will add a delightful citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor of your Queijadas.

6. Combine Ingredients: Now, combine the cooled milk and butter mixture with the egg-sugar blend, alternating with the flour mixture, until everything is just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix!

7. Fill Muffin Pans: Pour the batter into your prepared muffin pans, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise beautifully.

8. Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 35-38 minutes. Look for golden edges and a set center. Use a toothpick to check for doneness if it comes out clean, they re ready!

9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best experience!

Optional: Dust with a bit of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Queijadas

• Milk Temperature Matters: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot; overheating can affect the custard s silky texture.

• Egg Beating Technique: Whip the eggs until light and frothy this step is crucial for ensuring a fluffy cupcake texture.

• Mix Gently: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to tough Queijadas.

• Muffin Pan Prep: Grease your muffin pans thoroughly to prevent sticking. Consider using cupcake liners for easy removal.

• Cooling Time: Allow the Queijadas to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their shape.

• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. These delightful cupcakes can also be frozen for future indulgence!

What to Serve with Queijadas?

Imagine the joy of a sunny afternoon as you savor these delightful treats alongside the perfect accompaniments. Let s create a memorable experience worth sharing with loved ones!

• Bold Espresso: The rich, robust flavor of a strong espresso pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy texture of Queijadas, enhancing the overall taste experience.

• Fresh Berries: A medley of juicy berries offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy custard, providing a burst of color and flavor on each plate. The tanginess of strawberries and blueberries harmonizes with the sweetness of the cupcakes.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, vanilla ice cream complements the custardy texture of the Queijadas, adding an indulgent touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

• Citrus Salad: A light citrus salad with oranges and mint brightens the palate and offers a refreshing bite between the rich flavors of the cupcakes, making for a delightful contrast.

• Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea enhances the flavors of the Queijadas while offering a soothing, aromatic experience that lingers pleasantly.

• Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch to the Queijadas, providing a rich backdrop that accentuates their lemony sweetness.

These delightful pairings will elevate your homemade Queijadas into a full sensory experience!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Queijadas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors can meld together beautifully. Additionally, if you d like to bake them later, simply pour the batter into the muffin pans and refrigerate until you re ready to bake. When you re set to serve, just pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, keeping an eye on the baking time as it may require an extra minute or two. With these easy make-ahead tips, you ll have fresh, delightful Queijadas ready to impress your family and friends!

Storage Tips for Queijadas

Room Temperature: Keep Queijadas at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a clean kitchen towel or in a cake dome to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; this keeps the custard cupcakes moist and delicious.

Freezer: Freeze Queijadas for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for best results.

Reheating: Thaw frozen Queijadas in the fridge overnight, then enjoy chilled or bring them to room temperature before serving for a delightful treat.

Queijadas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make these delightful cupcakes your own by exploring various twists and alternative ingredients!

• Citrus Swap: Replace lemon zest with orange zest for a sweeter, vibrant flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil for a lactose-free option.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities.
• Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Fruit Layer: Spoon a layer of fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot into the muffin cups before adding batter for a fruity surprise.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped walnuts or almonds to add texture and a nutty note to every bite.
• Chocolate Twist: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent chocolate flavor that balances the custard s creaminess.
• Heat Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising spicy contrast to the sweetness.

Queijadas Recipe FAQs

What kind of eggs should I use for Queijadas?
Absolutely! Using large, room temperature eggs is recommended as they provide the best texture and structure to your custard. If you only have cold eggs, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to room temperature quickly.

How should I store leftover Queijadas?
Very good question! You can store your Queijadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain their freshness, keep them covered or in a cake dome at room temperature for up to 2 days before moving to the fridge.

Can I freeze Queijadas?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Queijadas, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature.

What should I do if my Queijadas sink in the center after baking?
Don t worry if your Queijadas sink slightly; it s actually a common occurrence due to the custard texture. To help prevent this, ensure you don t overbeat the egg mixture give it a good whisk until light and airy, but stop once it reaches that point. Also, avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain a consistent temperature.

Is there a dairy-free option for the Queijadas?
Absolutely! You can easily make these delightful custard cupcakes lactose-free by substituting whole milk with non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just ensure the non-dairy milk you choose has a similar creaminess for the best results.

Are there any allergy considerations with Queijadas?
Very much so! Queijadas contain eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you re making these for someone with allergies, you can use egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal or applesauce, non-dairy milk for lactose intolerance, and a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate celiac needs. Always be sure to check all ingredient labels to ensure safety!