Easy and Delicious Portuguese Custard Tart

Prepare the Pastry:

1. Sift the flour and sugar together onto a clean work surface, forming a mound with a well in the center.
2. Add the egg into the well, then incorporate the cold butter, cut into small pieces.
3. Using your fingertips, work the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly into a disc, wrap it in parchment paper, and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.

Make the Custard:

1. :In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar.
2. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean and add them to the mixture.
3. Whisk the egg yolks separately, then add them to the saucepan along with the cornstarch. Mix until dissolved.
4. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a ribbon-like texture when dripped off a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and line a tart pan with it. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork.
3. Pour the custard filling into the tart shell and bake for about 35 minutes, or until golden with dark caramelized spots on top.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Run a knife around the edges to help release the tart from the pan before serving.

Recipe & Photo Credit: Sobremesas de Portugal