Tuga Pops − Monday, December 22, 2025, 6 Months ago in Holiday Recipes
5 out of 5 with 3 ratings

Portuguese Aletria Recipe: Christmas Sweet Egg Noodle Dessert

Savor the authentic taste of Portuguese Aletria, a creamy Christmas sweet egg noodle dessert. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a festive favorite!
30 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 15 min

You will love this Portuguese Aletria Recipe: Christmas Sweet Egg Noodle Dessert

Discover the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine with our easy-to-follow Aletria recipe! This traditional Christmas sweet egg noodle dessert is a festive favorite, combining creamy milk, aromatic cinnamon, and zesty lemon for a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.


Ingredients

100 g (3.5 oz) vermicelli (or thin pasta)400 ml (1.7 cups) milk150 g (3/4 cup) sugar1 unit lemon peel1 unit cinnamon stick50 g (3.5 tbsp) butter3 large egg yolks1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. In a pot, cook the vermicelli in water for 5 minutes.
  2. Drain and add the milk, sugar, lemon peel, and cinnamon stick.
  3. Let it cook over medium heat until soft.
  4. Remove from heat, mix in the butter and the previously beaten egg yolks.
  5. Return to heat, stirring constantly until the yolks are slightly cooked.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Paula

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
250 kcal
Fat
10 g
Carbs
36 g
Protein
6 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute vermicelli with another type of pasta if I can't find it?

Yes, you can substitute vermicelli with any thin pasta like angel hair or capellini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different pasta types may have slightly varying cooking times.

How should I store leftover Portuguese Aletria?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small splash of milk if it appears too dry.

What should I do if my egg yolks scramble when adding them to the mixture?

To prevent the egg yolks from scrambling, make sure to temper them first by slowly adding a small amount of the hot vermicelli mixture into the beaten yolks while whisking continuously. This gradually raises the temperature of the yolks before adding them back to the pot.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Madeira - This fortified wine has a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dessert.

General: Late Harvest Riesling - The sweetness and acidity of this wine enhance the creamy texture and spices in the dish.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This lager's light and crisp profile pairs well with the dessert's richness without overwhelming it.

General: Wheat Beer - The subtle fruity and spicy notes in wheat beer complement the flavors of cinnamon and lemon in the aletria.

Other Beverages

Coffee: A smooth, medium-roast coffee adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the dessert, enhancing its flavors.

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Tuga Pops

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