Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

 

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares: A Light, Dreamy Dessert for Any Occasion

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the kind of dessert that feels timeless—silky, softly sweet, and impossibly comforting. With layers of flaky pastry (or simple biscuit crust) and a luscious vanilla custard, these squares are perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or quiet evenings with a cup of tea. The contrast of crisp layers and melt-in-your-mouth filling makes this dessert a crowd-pleasing classic.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or working on your first custard recipe, this one is reliable, simple, and guaranteed to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and elegant – A smooth vanilla custard that feels luxurious.

• Easy to customize – Works with fruit toppings, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream.

• Budget-friendly – Made from pantry staples.

• Great make-ahead dessert – Sets beautifully in the fridge overnight.

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Ingredients

For the Pastry Layer

Choose one of the following:

• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed or

• 1 simple graham/biscuit crust (2 cups crumbs + ½ cup melted butter)

For the Vanilla Custard

• 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk

• ½ cup sugar

• 4 egg yolks

• 1 whole egg

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)

• 2 tbsp butter

• Pinch of salt

For Topping (optional)

• Powdered sugar

• Whipped cream

• Fresh berries

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Base

Using puff pastry:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place pastry sheets on a baking tray and prick with a fork.

3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until puffed and golden.

4. Let cool completely.

Using biscuit crust:

1. Mix crumbs with melted butter.

2. Press into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch dish.

3. Chill in the fridge while preparing custard.

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2. Make the Vanilla Custard

1. In a saucepan, heat milk over medium until it steams—do not boil.

2. In a bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, whole egg, and cornstarch until smooth.

3. Slowly pour in 1 cup of warm milk while whisking to temper the eggs.

4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan.

5. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and glossy (3–5 minutes).

6. Remove from heat; stir in butter, vanilla, and salt.

7. Let cool slightly, whisking to avoid skin forming.

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3. Assemble the Squares

1. Place one sheet of cooled puff pastry in the bottom of your dish (or use prepared crust).

2. Pour warm vanilla custard evenly over the base.

3. Top with the second pastry sheet. Press gently.

4. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.

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4. Serve

Dust with powdered sugar and slice into clean squares using a sharp knife. Serve as-is or add whipped cream and berries for an extra touch of elegance.

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Tips for Success

• Cornstarch is key: It helps the custard firm up enough to slice cleanly.

• Let it chill long enough: Rushing this step may make the custard too soft.

• Keep whisking: Prevents lumps and guarantees silky smoothness.

• Use real vanilla: The flavor payoff is worth it.

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Variations

1. Chocolate Custard Squares

Add ½ cup chopped dark chocolate to the hot custard and whisk until melted.

2. Lemon-Vanilla Version

Add 1 tbsp lemon zest and 2 tbsp lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor.

3. Fruit Layer

Spread a thin layer of jam (raspberry, strawberry, apricot) beneath the custard.

4. Coconut Custard

Replace 1 cup of milk with coconut milk and sprinkle toasted coconut on top.

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How to Store

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days, covered to keep pastry crisp.

• Freeze: Not recommended—custard changes texture when frozen.

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Perfect Occasions for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

• Holiday gatherings

• Birthday parties

• Afternoon tea

• Potluck desserts

• Light summer treat