Hong Kong Egg Tarts: A Taste of Dim Sum at Home!
Craving authentic Egg Tarts? My Hong Kong-style recipe delivers flaky pastry and smooth custard. Easy enough for a cuppa and a bake! Get the recipe now.

Alright, let's dive headfirst into these gorgeous hong kong egg tarts ! ever walked past a bakery and the sweet, warm smell of custard just pulls you in? this recipe is your ticket to recreating that magic at home.
Honestly, these little beauties are surprisingly easy to make. let's do it!
Quick Hook
Remember those awesome dim sum brunches? This egg tart recipe is about bringing that bakery goodness into your kitchen. Each bite brings a burst of sweet custard balanced by a flaky crust.
Little Bites of Hong Kong Sunshine
These egg tarts come straight from the bustling streets of hong kong. they are a staple snack, part of their culinary culture! this recipe is rated medium on the difficulty scale.
Total baking time? around two hours. it yields about 6-8 tarts. perfect for sharing... or not!
Why You'll Love These Tarts
Did you know eggs are packed with protein? these tarts are delicious and a sneaky way to get some nutrients! this recipe makes them special because it is foolproof .
Even if you are new to baking, they will come out beautifully. perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a cheeky breakfast tarts egg treat!
Okay, now let's gather what we need...
Pastry magic starts with 225g of all-purpose flour. don't forget 113g of chilled, cubed butter and 60ml of ice water.
A pinch of salt and 15g of caster sugar will balance things out.
For the custard, grab 120ml of water, 100g of caster sugar and 3 large eggs. to finish it off you'll need 120ml of evaporated milk and a dash of vanilla extract.
Now, isn't that simple tart filling recipes easy ?
One of my favourite old british pastry , the hong kong egg tarts recipe , is a great dessert with custard .
Also, if you are in the festive spirits, the christmas custard tart could be a thing!
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks! we're tackling hong kong egg tarts , yeah? think of them as little bites of sunshine, a proper treat for elevenses or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
I'm aiming to make this as easy as pie (or tart!) for you, even if you're a bit of a beginner.
So grab your apron, and let's go!
Ingredients & Equipment: The Lowdown
Right then, before we get our hands messy, let's make sure we have everything we need. this isn't masterchef, but a little prep goes a long way.
Plus, these english tart recipes are easier than you might think, especially if you keep things simple. we want that perfect balance of flaky crust and wobbly custard.
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific
For the pastry (the Pie Pastry !), you'll need:
- 225g (8 oz) of all-purpose flour. Good quality is key. Don't skimp!
- 113g (4 oz) of proper cold unsalted butter, cubed. It HAS to be cold!
- 60ml (1/4 cup) of ice water. Again, ice cold! This makes all the difference.
- 15g (1 tablespoon) caster sugar. Adds just a touch of sweetness.
- A pinch of salt.
For the Tart Filling Recipes Easy and super yummy custard (oooh, Custard Tart Recipe !):
- 120ml (1/2 cup) water.
- 100g (1/2 cup) caster sugar.
- 3 large eggs. Free-range if you can.
- 120ml (1/2 cup) evaporated milk. This gives it that authentic texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- A pinch of salt.
Honestly, getting the butter cold enough is half the battle. if it starts to melt, pop it back in the fridge for a bit.
Trust me, it's worth it! also, make sure to buy the right type of flour, there is a big difference between all purpose, bread and cake flour
Seasoning Notes: A Touch of Magic
This is where you can put your own spin on things! a little vanilla extract in the custard is essential.
Don't be shy! a touch of nutmeg is delightful, especially for christmas custard tart .
- Essential Spices : Vanilla extract for that classic flavour.
- Flavour Enhancers : A teeny pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon.
- Substitution : If you're out of vanilla, a drop of almond extract works in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make these Individual Custard Tarts .
- Mixing bowls.
- A pastry blender (or use your fingers!).
- A rolling pin.
- 6-8 individual tart tins. You can use muffin tins if you're stuck.
- A whisk.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
If you haven't got a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle works wonders! get creative! i once used a can of beans when i moved into my new house.
We're aiming for simple, delicious, and a little bit of that old british recipes charm.
Remember, this is just a guide. feel free to experiment and make these egg tarts recipe your own. i've tried all sorts of dessert recipes custard , from adding a bit of lemon zest to the custard, to using different types of pastry.
Every time i have a different result. but always delicious! so get baking and don't be afraid to have a bit of fun!
Hong Kong Egg Tarts: A Taste of Dim Sum at Home! Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 225g (8 oz/ 1 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 113g (4 oz/ ½ cup/ 1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 60ml (1/4 cup) ice water
- 15g (1 tablespoon) caster sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 120ml (1/2 cup) water
- 100g (1/2 cup) caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 120ml (1/2 cup) evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
🥄 Instructions:
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Heat water and sugar in a saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves, creating a simple syrup. Cool completely.
- Whisk eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, and salt together.
- Slowly whisk the cooled syrup into the egg mixture. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This ensures a perfect egg tart!
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out circles slightly larger than the tart tins.
- Press the dough into the tart tins, trimming any excess.
- Pour the custard filling into the tart shells.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the centre.
- Let cool completely before serving these delicious egg tart.
Let's Make Hong Kong Egg Tarts : Dim Sum at Home!
Honestly, who doesn’t love an egg tart ? these little guys are the perfect bite-sized treat. i love them. they remind me of that holiday in hong kong.
So here’s my take on classic hong kong egg tarts , a taste of dim sum in your very own kitchen! it’s easier than you think, even making the pastry.
Prep Like a Pro
Alright, the secret weapon is mise en place . that's fancy talk for getting everything ready. measure all your ingredients. chop your butter.
Keep it cold. this saves time and stress, trust me. i always forget something otherwise. seriously.
Step-by-Step Magic: From Dough to Delicious
- Make the Dough: Flour, sugar, pinch of salt. Cold butter goes in. Now rub it together. Looks like breadcrumbs, yeah?
- Add ice water slowly. Don't overmix it! A disc, wrapped tight and chilled, at least 1 hour .
- Custard Time: Water and sugar. Dissolve it, cool it completely. This makes simple syrup.
- Eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, pinch of salt. Whisk it well! Then slowly add your syrup.
- Strain it. Nobody wants lumpy custard. Like straining is key.
- Bake Time! 375° F ( 190° C) . Roll dough, cut circles, press into tins.
- Pour custard filling. Just about full.
- Bake for 20- 25 minutes . Golden crust, wobbly custard. Cool completely!
Pro Tart Tips from Yours Truly
I swear by these tips.
- Keep everything chilled. Cold ingredients equal flaky pie pastry . That's right, ice cold!
- Don't overbake! A slight wobble is perfect. The custard tart recipe should be simple.
Common mistake? overmixing the dough! don't do it! you can even make the dough a day ahead. wrap it well and chill it.
It is also considered one of the perfect breakfast tarts egg.
These english tart recipes will not only impress your family but also your friends! plus you can adjust it to a portuguese recipe by adding a touch of cinnamon, also a perfect christmas custard tart .
You know, making egg tarts isn’t just about following instructions. it’s about the joy of creating something delicious. so put on some tunes, get into the kitchen, and make some magic.
And hey, if you mess up the first time, don't sweat it. we've all been there. honestly! enjoy your dessert with custard .
It is also important to have some tart dishes . this custard pies recipes is perfect to try today!. looking for recipes using custard is ideal for beginners.
You'll get a delicious portuguese natas recipe too!

Alright, let's dive into some extra bits about our egg tart adventure. this is where we add our personal touch, the secret ingredients to making these little beauties truly unforgettable.
Trust me, these tips are pure gold.
Recipe Notes
Serving ‘em up Right: Plating and Presentation
Honestly, presentation matters. i remember the first time i tried to make egg tarts for a proper afternoon tea. they tasted amazing, but looked a bit.
..rustic. a little dusting of icing sugar can work wonders! if you're feeling fancy, a sprig of mint adds a pop of colour.
These individual custard tarts deserve to be shown off!
Try pairing them with a proper cuppa – earl grey is my go-to. or, if you're feeling adventurous, a chilled glass of sweet dessert wine works beautifully.
Consider a refreshing palate cleanser like a simple fruit salad of mandarin oranges or any seasonal citrus.
Storage Secrets: Keeping the Magic Alive
Right, let’s talk storage. the best is to enjoy your egg tarts immediately for maximum freshness. but life happens! you can keep your amazing dessert with custard in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pop them in an airtight container, and they'll be right as rain.
Freezing? it's doable, but the texture might change a bit. freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
Reheat in a low oven (around 300° f/ 150° c) until warmed through. they might not be quite as perfect as fresh, but still a tasty treat.
Switching things up: Adaptations and Swaps
Fancy a change? let's explore some twists! for a delightful christmas custard tart , consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard.
It gives a lovely festive warmth. or, you can make it with different tart filling recipes easy .
Want a gluten-free option? swap the regular flour for a gluten-free blend. you might need to experiment a bit with the liquid, but it’s totally doable.
What about dietary adaptations to your portuguese natas recipe ? use an egg substitute, and coconut milk to make it vegan! you could add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard to make it extra christmassy.
Know what you're eating: Nutritional Nitty-Gritty
Okay, let's keep it real – these are a treat. but it's still good to know what you're tucking into.
Each egg tart is roughly around 250 calories. they're a source of protein and carbs, thanks to the eggs and pastry.
Of course, if you eat them regularly or add more sugar, it'll impact your nutritional intake.
But hey, a little indulgence now and then is good for the soul! Plus, eggs are packed with vitamins, so that's a win, right? And if you are looking for recipes using custard , keep in mind that it has many nutritional benefits!
So, there you have it! loads of ways to tweak and perfect your egg tart game. get in that kitchen, get your apron on, and make some magic! this isn't about perfection; it's about having fun and making something delicious.
You got this! and don’t forget to look into other english tart recipes !

Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my egg tart pastry tough?
A tough egg tart pastry is usually caused by overworking the dough. When you mix the flour and butter too much, you develop the gluten, which makes the crust tough. Be gentle when mixing and chilling the dough properly will help relax the gluten.
How do I get a smooth filling for my egg tart?
A silky-smooth egg tart filling is all about straining! After whisking the custard ingredients together, pass the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This removes any lumps or undissolved bits, giving you that perfectly smooth texture that's just like you'd find in a Hong Kong bakery. Make sure to cool your simple syrup completely to prevent the eggs from cooking.
Can I freeze egg tarts?
Yes, you can freeze baked egg tarts! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and re-warm in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp up the pastry.
What's the difference between Hong Kong and Portuguese egg tarts?
Think of Hong Kong egg tarts as the gentle cousins of the bolder Portuguese variety. Hong Kong tarts typically have a sweeter, smoother custard and a shortcrust pastry, while Portuguese egg tarts (Pastel de Nata) have a flakier puff pastry crust and a richer custard with a characteristic browned, almost burnt, top. They're both delicious, but offer very different textures and flavours, rather like comparing a Bakewell tart to a lemon meringue pie!
How can I customize my egg tart recipe?
Get creative! You could add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy twist. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon adds warmth. For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white. And, as mentioned in the variations, chocolate or coconut are always a winner!
Are egg tarts healthy?
Egg tarts are a delicious treat, but they are relatively high in sugar and fat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They are similar to eating cakes and should be considered when maintaining your nutritional intake.
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