This Filipino Boat Tarts ae creamy, buttery, gently sweet and so addicting. Make them and use the recipe below and you now have something special to give away for special occasions.
For more Filipino Pasalubong Recipe:
Filipino Boat Tarts Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 spatula
- 1 cooking pan
- 1 bowl
- 30 Boat shape mold
- 1 brush
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil to Brush the molds
- 1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 stick Unsalted Butter (Unsalted Butter (one stick butter cup into tablespoons) at room temperature
- 1 tbsp White Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 large Egg Yolk
- 4 tbsp Cold Water
Filling Recipe
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1 can Condensed Milk (160 ML)
- 2 large Egg Yolks1
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 150 grams Roasted Peanuts
Instructions
- Slice the butter into tablespoon pieces. Put the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, egg yolk and butter into the electric grinder. Pulse three times. Add in the water tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. I add about four tablespoons to achieve the crust consistency.
- Remove the dough and form into a ball. Wrap it in a plastic wrap. Place in the fridge for an hour.
Prepare the Crust
- Using a brush, coat the boat tart molds with oil.
- When the crust is ready, take a tablespoon of the crust mixture and shape it into the boat tart molds.
- Preheat oven at 320 F
Make the Filling
- Ground the roasted peanuts and set it aside.
- Melt the butter on low heat and add the condensed milk. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract and continue mixing the filling until sticky. Please see video to see the consistency. Let it cool.
Bake
- Place the filling into a pastry bag. Gently fill the crust halfway and place the ground peanut on top. Bake at preheated oven at 320 F oven for 18 to 25 minutes. Ensure that the crust is not burn I check in 15 minutes.
Video

What Are Filipino Boat Tarts?
If you grew up around Filipino bakeries or family gatherings, you probably remember those tiny buttery pastries filled with creamy sweetness called Filipino boat tarts. These nostalgic treats are rich, delicate, and perfect with coffee or tea.
Filipino boat tarts are known for their soft buttery shell shaped like a small boat and filled with a sweet creamy filling. They are often served during holidays, birthdays, fiestas, and merienda time. While simple, they always disappear quickly from the dessert table.
This homemade Filipino boat tarts recipe is easy to follow and gives you bakery-style results right at home.
When I was growing up in the Philippines, this Filipino Boat Tarts are a luxury when I have it. They are sold in the stores, but they are expensive to buy with the small allowance I have; so, it takes me awhile to save to eat one piece of this. Sometimes I can only eat it when a family or friend from a different island visit and bring this-these boat tarts are a staple for “pasalubong” a kind of treat to give as gifts to family when one comes home. making this in USA whenever I can is a blessing which I am grateful for. Before I came in the US, it did not even cross my mind that I will be making them in the convenience of my home. in my own oven and making them as abundantly as I can now – and giving them away to friends as a gift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Rich buttery crust
- Creamy sweet filling
- Perfect for holidays and parties
- Great make-ahead Filipino dessert
How Do you Make this Filipino Boat tarts
Making these Filipino Boat Tars are surprisingly easy- here’s the process
- You need to grind the Peanuts
- Make the filling- this filling is the Filipino style custard, so it’s slightly sweet
- You need a crust to fill the custard with
- Bake
Ingredients for the Crust
- All Purpose Flour
- Egg Yolk
- Sugar
- Salt
- Unsalted Butter-softened (means let the butter rest on the counter until it will make a dent when you push it down with your index finger)
- Cold Water
Filling Ingredients for this Filipino Boat Tarts Recipe
- Unsalted Butter
- Condensed Milk
- Vanilla Extract
- Egg Yolks
- Roasted Peanuts
Tips for the Best Boat Tarts
- Do not overbake or the filling may crack.
- Chill the dough if it becomes too soft.
- Use real butter for the richest flavor.
- Add cheese topping for a classic Filipino bakery touch.
How to Store Boat Tarts
Store Filipino boat tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
What Is the Filling in Filipino Boat Tarts?
Traditional Filipino boat tarts are filled with a rich, creamy yema-style custard made from egg yolks, condensed milk, butter, and vanilla. Some variations use caramel filling, while others include nuts, coconut, or cheese for added flavor. The filling is baked inside a buttery pastry shell and often topped with toasted meringue.
Can I Make Boat Tarts Ahead of Time?
Yes. Boat tarts are an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake them 1 to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. If using a meringue topping, they are best enjoyed within a day or two for the best texture.
How Long Do Boat Tarts Last?
Homemade Filipino boat tarts typically last:
- 2–3 days at room temperature in an airtight container
- Up to 1 week in the refrigerator
For the freshest flavor and texture, enjoy them within the first few days after baking.
Can I Freeze Boat Tarts?
Yes, boat tarts can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Boat tarts without meringue freeze best because meringue can become soft after thawing.
Are Boat Tarts the Same as Yema Tarts?
Boat tarts and yema tarts are similar but not always identical. Both feature a buttery tart shell and a sweet custard filling. However, yema tarts specifically contain yema, a traditional Filipino custard made from egg yolks and condensed milk. Boat tarts may contain yema filling, caramel filling, or other sweet fillings depending on the recipe and bakery.
What Mold Is Used for Boat Tarts?
Boat tarts are traditionally baked in small boat-shaped tart molds made from aluminum or stainless steel. These molds create the distinctive elongated shape that gives the pastry its name. Boat tart molds are available online and in many baking supply stores specializing in Filipino baking tools.
Why Are They Called Boat Tarts?
Boat tarts get their name from their unique boat-shaped pastry shell. The elongated mold creates a shape that resembles a small boat, making them easy to recognize among traditional Filipino pastries.
Are Filipino Boat Tarts Served During Holidays?
Yes. Filipino boat tarts are popular during Christmas, fiestas, birthdays, and family gatherings. Their rich filling and elegant appearance make them a favorite dessert for special occasions.












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