Dim Sum Recipe

Egg Tarts

Dim sum · Makes 12 · 1 hour

Chinese custard tarts with smooth egg filling and pastry shells.

Recipe at a glance

Serves / makesMakes 12
Time1 hour
Cuisine or formatDim Sum
UseHome cooking and menu literacy

Ingredients

  • 12 tart shells
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk or whole milk
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vanilla, optional

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Dissolve sugar in warm water and cool slightly.
  3. Whisk eggs gently with milk and salt.
  4. Mix and strain the custard.
  5. Fill shells about 80 percent full.
  6. Bake until just set with a slight wobble.

Menu-literacy notes

  • Egg tarts are common in dim sum and bakeries.
  • Contains egg, wheat, and usually dairy.
  • The custard should be smooth, not curdled.

Variations and substitutions

  • Adjust salt, sugar, chile, and vinegar gradually rather than changing all seasonings at once.
  • For allergies or religious dietary needs, check sauces, wrappers, broth, cooking wine, and shared equipment.
  • When adapting the dish, preserve the core technique and flavor structure that make it recognizable on a menu.

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