Queijadas – Small cheese or milk tarts with a soft filling

Introduction

Queijadas, the deliciously soft and slightly sweet cheese or milk tarts, are a beloved staple of Portuguese cuisine. These delightful pastries, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack, have an appealing balance of a golden, slightly crispy exterior and a creamy, indulgent filling. Found in various forms throughout Portugal, especially in the Azores and Madeira, queijadas typically range in price from €1 to €3 ($1.10 to $3.30) at cafés and bakeries like Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon. For those who want to enjoy a treat while staying on track, we’ve created a keto version of queijadas that replaces high-carb ingredients with delicious low-carb substitutes. Let’s explore the joys of both the traditional queijadas recipe and its keto counterpart!

Origin and Inspiration

Queijadas trace their roots back to Portugal, particularly the regions of Azores and Madeira, where homemade recipes often bring families together for special occasions. Traditionally made with fresh cheese, milk, eggs, and sugar, queijadas embody the essence of Portuguese comfort food. They resemble other global desserts, like the Italian ricotta pie or Brazilian quindim, but they possess a unique texture and flavor profile that sets them apart.

In the keto adaptation of queijadas, we replace traditional flour and sugar with almond flour and erythritol. Picture the comforting aroma of fresh-baked pastries wafting through your kitchen, as the sweet notes mingle with the richness of cheese. With this dessert, the keto version doesn’t skimp on taste, ensuring you can enjoy these luscious tarts without the guilt!

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version

Calories: 280 kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 12g

Keto Version

Calories: 190 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 80mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of salt

Traditional Version:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk

Keto Version:

• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup erythritol
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter:

   • Traditional Version: In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, baking powder, salt, and milk. Gradually mix in the flour until a smooth batter forms. Imagine the creamy texture coating your mixing spoon.
   • Keto Version: In a similar manner, mix the cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, erythritol, baking powder, and almond milk until well-blended. Add the almond flour and stir until you have a thick, silky batter with a slightly nutty aroma.

2. Cooking Method:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Add the batter to greased small tart or muffin pans. For the traditional, note the sound of the batter gently plopping into place. For the keto version, relish the sight of a slightly golden mixture ready to rise.

3. Baking:
   Cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the queijadas bake, an earthy scent will fill your kitchen—imagine that fragrance wrapping around you like a warm hug.

4. Serving:
   Allow them to cool for a few minutes before loosening the edges with a knife and gently removing them from the pans. Serve warm, perhaps with a light dusting of powdered erythritol on the keto version, to accentuate its sweetness.

What Does It Pair Well With?

• Traditional Pairings: Serve your queijadas with a steaming cup of Portuguese coffee or the freshly brewed herbal tea. The slight bitterness of coffee gracefully balances the sweetness of the pastries.

• Keto-Friendly Pairings: Enjoy these tarts with a refreshing glass of unsweetened iced tea or coconut water. The light, fruity notes of coconut elevate the flavors of the queijadas, offering a delightful treat without the carbs.

What is the Shelf Life?

Both the traditional and keto queijadas will remain fresh for about 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer preservation, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to one month; place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked experience.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Oven: The traditional and keto queijadas are best baked in the oven, but if you’re short on time, consider using a toaster oven.

• Air Fryer: For a quicker method, you can use an air fryer. Set it to 320°F (160°C) and check after 15 minutes. It gives a delightful crispiness to the tart tops!

Conclusion: Traditional and Keto Versions

Whether you’re indulging in the classic queijadas rich with tradition or opting for the keto version that satisfies your low-carb lifestyle, these small cheese tarts promise an explosion of flavor and texture in every bite. The traditional version immerses you in Portuguese sweetness, while the keto variant allows you to enjoy this delightful treat guilt-free. Perfect for any occasion or as a simple snack, queijadas are sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the journey of flavors they offer and the smiles they bring to your table!