Delicious Dim Sum Custard Tarts Made Easy at Home

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As I strolled through my local market, the scent of freshly baked goods lured me toward a charming dim sum stall. There, the golden crusts of custard tarts caught my eye, each one promising a symphony of flaky pastry and luscious filling. Inspired, I knew I had to recreate this delicacy at home. The beauty of Dim Sum Custard Tarts is in their simplicity; using store-bought puff pastry means you can enjoy these delicious treats without the fuss of making pastry from scratch.

These delightful tarts feature a perfectly creamy custard nestled within a flaky, buttery shell, making them a crowd-pleasing dessert that anyone can whip up. Whether you re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to something special, these tarts are bound to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let s indulge in the joy of homemade Dim Sum Custard Tarts!

Why Will You Love Dim Sum Custard Tarts?

Delightful simplicity: Preparing these Dim Sum Custard Tarts is an effortless endeavor, perfect for any skill level. Flaky perfection is guaranteed with the use of convenient store-bought puff pastry, resulting in a light and airy texture. Creamy custard filling enhances every bite, delivering a balance of sweetness that s simply irresistible. Impressive crowd-pleaser: These tarts are sure to win over your guests, showcasing your culinary skills without hours of labor. Endless variations allow you to personalize your tarts, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting taste of fresh dim sum right in your own kitchen!

Dim Sum Custard Tarts Ingredients

For the Pastry
Puff Pastry Store-bought makes this recipe quick and easy while ensuring a flaky texture.
Flour for Dusting This keeps the pastry from sticking to your surface while rolling.
Melted Butter Adds richness and helps the pastry adhere to the muffin tin.

For the Custard Filling
Egg Yolks & Eggs These are essential for achieving the creamy and rich consistency of the custard.
Caster (Superfine) Sugar It sweetens the filling smoothly without any graininess, perfect for these dim sum custard tarts.
Vanilla Extract Enhances the flavor of the custard, making it even more delicious.
Milk Adds a level of creaminess that balances perfectly with the sweetness.
Pouring Cream (Single Cream) Offers a rich and smooth texture; you can substitute with heavy cream for an extra luxurious flavor.

How to Make Dim Sum Custard Tarts

1. Brush and Dust: Lightly brush a 20-hole muffin tin with melted butter. Dust your work surface with flour to prevent the pastry from sticking while rolling.

2. Roll Out the Pastry: Cut each sheet of puff pastry in half, then stack and roll tightly into a log. Cut the log into 4 equal pieces to create manageable portions.

3. Shape the Tarts: Flatten each piece into a 3mm thick circle. Line the muffin tin holes with these discs, pressing gently into shape.

4. Chill the Pastry Shells: Place the filled muffin tin in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for that flaky texture you re aiming for.

5. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 180 °C (360 °F), preparing it for the baking process that transforms your tarts into golden delights.

6. Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, sugar, and vanilla until well-blended. Gradually stir in the milk and cream, creating a luscious custard mixture.

7. Fill the Pastry Shells: Carefully pour the custard into the chilled pastry shells, filling each about two-thirds full to prevent overflow during baking.

8. Bake to Perfection: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 180 °C. Then, reduce the temperature to 160 °C (320 °F) and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the custard sets and the pastries turn golden.

9. Cool and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool slightly. Use a butter knife to gently loosen them from the tin before transferring them to a serving plate.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Dim Sum Custard Tarts

• Chill for Flakiness: Ensure you chill the pastry shells for at least 30 minutes; this crucial step helps achieve the perfect flaky texture.

• Mind the Fill Level: Don t overfill the pastry shells! Keep the custard filling to about two-thirds full to prevent overflow while baking.

• Gentle Release: Use a butter knife to carefully loosen the tarts from the tin; this ensures they come out beautiful and intact, ready for serving.

• Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding pandan extract for a unique twist, or substitute vanilla with almond or coconut extracts for different flavor profiles.

• Use Caster Sugar: Opt for caster sugar (superfine) to sweeten your custard smoothly, avoiding any graininess and ensuring a silky texture in your Dim Sum Custard Tarts.

What to Serve with Dim Sum Custard Tarts?

Looking to create a memorable meal surrounding these delightful tarts? Here are some perfect pairing ideas!

• Green Tea: The light, earthy flavors of green tea provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the custard tarts. Sip alongside your dessert for a calming finish to your meal.

• Steamed Dumplings: Fluffy veggies or pork dumplings will complement the rich custard, bringing an authentic dim sum vibe to the table. Their savory notes balance the sweetness beautifully.

• Fruity Sorbet: A scoop of fruity sorbet, like mango or raspberry, adds a refreshing, tangy kick, enhancing the overall flavor experience while keeping things light and cool.

• Sesame Balls: These sweet, chewy treats filled with red bean paste or lotus seed paste provide a delightful texture contrast, creating an exciting array of flavors in your dessert spread.

• Fresh Fruit Platter: Think juicy slices of ripe mango or a medley of berries. The natural sweetness and tartness of fresh fruit harmonize well with the creamy custard, adding freshness.

• Coconut Milk Pudding: This creamy dessert mirrors the flavors in the tarts while providing a silky texture. Drizzle with a touch of honey for added sweetness, offering a delicious finish.

Experimenting with these pairings will elevate your dim sum experience, making every bite a celebration of culinary delight!

Storage Tips for Dim Sum Custard Tarts

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Dim Sum Custard Tarts fresh from the oven for the best texture, but they can be left out for up to 2 hours if serving at room temperature.

Fridge: Store the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their creamy custard and flaky pastry.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tarts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Reheating: To restore the fresh-baked taste, reheat the tarts in a preheated oven at 160 °C (320 °F) for about 10 minutes, making sure they re warmed through and the pastry is crisp.

Dim Sum Custard Tarts Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Dim Sum Custard Tarts to elevate your baking experience!

• Pandan Infusion: Add a splash of pandan extract to the custard for a fragrant, green twist that will amaze your taste buds.
  This Southeast Asian flavor brings a delightful aroma, giving your tarts an exotic flair.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Top your finished tarts with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a rich, indulgent treat.
  The combination of chocolate and custard creates a delightful contrast that all dessert lovers crave.

• Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for a warm, cozy flavor.
  This simple addition transforms your tarts into a comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings.

• Fruit Topping: Garnish your custard tarts with fresh berries or tropical fruits for a burst of color and freshness.
  The bright flavors will balance the sweetness of the custard, making each bite refreshing and delightful.

• Lemon Zest: Mix in some freshly grated lemon zest to the custard for a zesty kick.
  This adds a tangy brightness, giving your tarts an invigorating flavor profile that s just perfect for springtime gatherings.

• Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract to create a nutty custard filling that pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry.
  This variation is comforting and reminiscent of traditional cookies, making it a favorite among almond lovers.

• Maple Syrup Touch: Substitute part of the sugar with maple syrup for a distinct flavor and gorgeous color.
  The deep, rich notes of maple create a unique custard experience that will surprise and delight your guests.

• Savory Spin: Explore a savory version by mixing in crumbled bacon or chopped herbs to the custard mixture.
  These tarts make for an exciting appetizer that brings unexpected flavor twists, ideal for special occasions.

Make Ahead Options

These Dim Sum Custard Tarts are perfect for those who love to meal prep! You can prepare the pastry shells up to 24 hours in advance; just roll and shape them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the custard filling, whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply fill the chilled pastry shells with the custard and bake as directed for fresh-out-of-the-oven results. Keeping the pastry and custard separate maintains the flaky texture and creamy consistency, ensuring your tarts are just as delicious as if they were made fresh. Enjoy these delightful treats anytime with minimal effort!

Dim Sum Custard Tarts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right puff pastry?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality, all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and texture. It should be well-packaged, with no dark spots, and kept frozen until you re ready to use it. Freshness matters; always check the expiration date to ensure the most delicious results!

How should I store my Dim Sum Custard Tarts?
You can keep your Dim Sum Custard Tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This protects the flaky pastry from becoming soggy while maintaining that creamy custard filling. Just remember to let them cool before storing to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze Dim Sum Custard Tarts?
Yes, you can! To freeze your tarts, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 160 °C (320 °F) for about 10 minutes to restore their bakery-fresh taste.

What should I do if my custard doesn t set properly?
If your custard isn t setting, it might be due to insufficient baking time or temperature. Ensure you re baking the tarts at the right temperatures first at 180 °C (360 °F) for 10 minutes, then lowering it to 160 °C (320 °F) for an additional 20 minutes. If you see a slightly jiggly center, that s normal; just let them cool completely to firm up!

Can I make Dim Sum Custard Tarts dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily modify this recipe! Substitute dairy milk and pouring cream with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use coconut milk for the cream element. Additionally, ensure that the puff pastry you select is dairy-free. Always check labels for hidden dairy ingredients!

How can I personalize the flavor of my custard?
The more the merrier! You can infuse your custard with flavors by adding extracts like almond, coconut, or even a hint of pandan for a unique twist. Alternatively, tell your taste buds to dance with a touch of zesty lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrusy flair!