Shortcrust pastry filled with silky custard cream is Lecce's most beloved breakfast pastry. This golden mediterranean treat is a family tradition enjoyed every morning in Puglia.
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and powdered sugar. Add cold butter, cut into cubes, and rub with fingertips until sandy.
Add one whole egg and one egg yolk to the flour mixture. Mix gently just until a soft dough forms; do not overwork. Flatten into a disc, wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
While the dough chills, prepare the custard: In a saucepan, whisk milk, sugar, cornstarch, a pinch of salt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Heat on medium, whisking continuously until it simmers and thickens (about 6–8 minutes).
Remove from heat. Quickly whisk in one whole egg and one yolk until completely smooth. Pour custard into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on top, and let cool to room temperature.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough to 1/8 inch thick. Line greased muffin tins with rounds of pastry, reserving enough for tops. Fill each with cooled custard up to three-quarters full.
Cover with smaller pastry rounds, pinching the edges to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg for shine.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.