The Dreamiest Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe Ever

Sweet memories often bloom around a delightful vanilla custard cream squares treat that captures childhood comfort.

Nostalgia whispers through each creamy layer, inviting warm connections.

Delicate pastry embraces smooth, silky filling with elegant simplicity.

Soft textures melt across your palate, creating instant happiness.

Light and airy squares promise pure indulgence without overwhelming complexity.

Rich vanilla notes dance through each tender bite, promising pure delight.

Prepare to savor this irresistible dessert that transforms ordinary moments into magical experiences.

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares That Delight Every Bite

• Indulge in Simplicity: This vanilla custard cream squares recipe offers a delightful dessert experience with minimal complex steps, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The combination of crispy puff pastry and smooth vanilla custard creates a universally appealing dessert that will wow family and friends at gatherings, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: Using basic pantry staples like milk, eggs, sugar, and puff pastry, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert without requiring specialized or expensive components.
• Versatile Dessert Option: Easily adaptable for different occasions, from casual weekend treats to elegant dinner parties, these vanilla custard cream squares can be dressed up with fresh berries or served simply dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

• Puff Pastry Sheets: Delicate and flaky pastry that creates a crisp foundation for the custard dessert.

• Milk: Creamy liquid that forms the base of the smooth custard.
• Sugar: Sweet ingredient that adds flavor and helps thicken the custard.
• Cornstarch: Thickening agent that gives the custard its smooth and pudding-like consistency.
• Egg Yolks: Rich component that provides richness and helps set the custard.
• Vanilla Extract: Aromatic flavoring that adds depth and classic sweetness to the custard.
• Salt: Subtle seasoning that enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.

• Powdered Sugar: Delicate sweet topping that adds a light, decorative finish to the dessert.

How to Make Smooth Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly dust it with flour.

This will help prevent sticking and ensure a smooth baking process.

Step 2: Lay First Pastry Layer

Carefully roll out the first puff pastry sheet to fit perfectly in the baking dish.

Use a fork to poke several holes across the surface, allowing steam to escape during baking.

Step 3: Bake First Pastry Layer

Place the pastry in the oven preheated to 400F.

Bake until the sheet turns a beautiful golden brown, which typically takes about 15 minutes.

Once done, remove and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Warm the Milk

In a medium saucepan, gently heat the milk.

Watch carefully to ensure it becomes hot but does not reach a boiling point.

The goal is to create a warm base for the custard.

Step 5: Prepare Custard Mixture

• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-incorporated mixture.

Step 6: Combine Milk and Egg Mixture

Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.

This gradual addition prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a silky smooth custard.

Step 7: Cook the Custard

Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Continue cooking until the custard thickens and begins to bubble.

Step 8: Layer Custard on Pastry

Pour the freshly made custard over the cooled first pastry layer in the baking dish.

Spread evenly to create a smooth surface.

Step 9: Add Top Pastry Layer

Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the custard.

Use a fork to prick holes across the surface, allowing steam to escape during baking.

Step 10: Final Baking

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Look for a golden brown color on the top pastry layer, which indicates it’s perfectly cooked.

Step 11: Cool and Chill

Allow the pastry to cool to room temperature.

Then, place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set and become firm.

Step 12: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.

This adds a beautiful finishing touch and a touch of sweetness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

• Use cold puff pastry straight from the refrigerator for flakier layers and better rise during baking.
• Whisk egg mixture continuously while adding hot milk to prevent scrambling and ensure smooth texture.
• Prick pastry sheets thoroughly with a fork to help steam escape and maintain crisp layers.
• Allow the dessert to cool completely before refrigerating to set the custard and maintain structural integrity.
• Sift powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant, even coating that looks professionally prepared.

Flavorful Variations for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

• Gluten-Free Custard Squares: Replace puff pastry with gluten-free pie crust or almond flour pastry for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Custard Option: Substitute dairy milk with coconut milk, egg yolks with cornstarch and plant-based cream, using vegan puff pastry for a dairy-free version.
• Chocolate Lovers' Variation: Add cocoa powder to the custard mixture and sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top for a rich chocolate flavor profile.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and reduce overall sweetness while maintaining the creamy custard texture.

Serving Suggestions for Custard Cream Squares

• Sweet Brunch Companion: Pair these custard squares with fresh berries and a light mimosa for a delightful morning treat.
• Elegant Dessert Plate: Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for extra texture and richness.
• Afternoon Tea Delight: Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange on a decorative platter with mint leaves for a sophisticated tea-time presentation.
• Coffee Shop Style: Garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder and serve with a steaming cappuccino for a cafe-inspired experience.

Best Storage Tips for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

• Store covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the custard cream squares flat to maintain their shape and prevent custard from sliding.
• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Warm gently in the oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore pastry crispness. Avoid microwave, which can make the pastry soggy and ruin the delicate texture.
• Cut into squares before storing to make reheating and serving easier. Each slice can be individually wrapped and stored separately for convenient grab-and-go dessert options.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pastry?

Yes, you can substitute puff pastry with phyllo dough or shortcrust pastry, but the texture and taste will slightly differ from the original recipe.

• Is cornstarch necessary for the custard?

Cornstarch is crucial as it helps thicken the custard and gives it a smooth, creamy consistency. Without it, the custard might be runny.

• How do I prevent lumps in the custard?

Whisk constantly while adding hot milk to the egg mixture and stir continuously while cooking to ensure a smooth, lump-free custard.

• Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dessert a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, which actually helps the flavors meld together and makes the pastry more tender.

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful vanilla custard cream squares bring Italian pastry magic to dessert tables. Layers of delicate pastry and silky custard create a harmonious blend that satisfies sweet cravings with elegant simplicity.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry and Base Ingredients:

• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed

Main Custard Ingredients:

• 4 cups (960 milliliters) whole milk
• 6 large egg yolks
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

Flavor and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 400F (200C) to prepare for pastry preparation.
2. Dust a clean surface with flour and gently roll out puff pastry sheets to perfectly fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Carefully place the first pastry sheet into the baking dish, using a fork to create small punctures across the surface for even baking.
4. Bake the first pastry sheet for 15 minutes until achieving a rich golden-brown color, then allow to cool completely.
5. Warm the milk in a saucepan until hot, avoiding boiling temperatures.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt, whisking until smooth and well-integrated.
7. Slowly stream the hot milk into the egg mixture, continuously whisking to prevent curdling and ensure a silky texture.
8. Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan, cooking over medium heat while stirring constantly until the custard thickens and begins to bubble.
9. Pour the creamy custard evenly over the cooled first pastry layer in the baking dish.
10. Gently lay the second pastry sheet on top of the custard, creating fork punctures to allow steam to escape.
11. Return the dish to the oven, baking for 15-20 minutes until the top pastry turns a beautiful golden-brown shade.
12. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
13. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to set the custard and enhance flavor.
14. Just before serving, dust the top with a delicate layer of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Ensure pastry sheets are rolled thin and even for a delicate, crisp texture that melts in your mouth.
• When adding hot milk to egg mixture, pour slowly and whisk continuously to prevent scrambling eggs and create silky smooth custard.
• Refrigerating allows custard to set completely, enhancing flavor and creating clean, precise square slices when serving.
• For gluten-free option, substitute puff pastry with almond flour or gluten-free pastry sheets to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 278
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 86 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg