Vanilla Custard Cream Squares [Graham Cracker Crust]

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust topped with smooth, creamy vanilla custard and a light whipped cream layer.

The combination of textures makes each bite rich and satisfying. The balance of sweetness and creaminess provides a delicious treat that many enjoy.

Preparing these squares takes about 20 minutes of active work, followed by baking and chilling time, totaling around two and a half hours.

Making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is a rewarding process involving mixing, cooking the custard until thick, and allowing it to set before adding whipped cream on top.

About This Recipe

This recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, creamy vanilla custard filling and a fluffy whipped cream topping.

The custard is made by gently cooking milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until thickened, then flavored with vanilla and butter for extra richness.

After chilling to set the custard, the dessert is finished with sweetened whipped cream, adding a light and airy contrast.

The Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is straightforward, requiring basic ingredients and common kitchen tools, resulting in a smooth, indulgent treat that’s ideal for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting homemade dessert.

How To Prepare Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Chilling Time: 2 hours (for custard to set)

Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: About 9 square (depending on serving size)

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Electric mixer or hand whisk (for whipping cream)
• Fine mesh sieve (optional, for smooth custard)

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the custard filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the whipped cream topping:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Step 1: Get the crust ready

Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until everything is combined. Press this mix down firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch pan to make an even crust. Bake it for about 8 to 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool while you make the custard.

Step 2: Make the custard base

In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add milk bit by bit, whisking so no lumps form. Heat it over medium, stirring all the time until it thickens and just starts to boil gently.

Step 3: Prepare the eggs

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks lightly. Pour about half a cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs slowly while whisking so the eggs don’t cook right away. Then pour this egg mixture back into the pot with the rest of the milk mixture.

Step 4: Cook the custard

Put the pot back on medium heat and stir constantly for another 2 to 3 minutes until it gets thicker. Take it off the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla until its smooth.

Step 5: Put it together and chill

Pour the warm custard over the crust in the pan. Cover the surface with plastic wrap so it doesn’t get a skin. Put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours until its set.

Step 6: Make the whipped cream

In a big bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla with a mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Finish and serve

When the custard is set, spread the whipped cream on top. Cut into squares and enjoy your creamy vanilla custard treat!

Why We Love This Recipe

This Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is loved because it combines creamy custard, a crunchy crust, and light whipped cream into one delicious dessert. The flavors blend beautifully, offering a sweet, smooth, and satisfying experience.

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is easy to make with simple ingredients and doesn’t require complicated techniques. The dessert is versatile, suitable for many occasions, and can be prepared ahead of time.

Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. This Vanilla Custard Cream Squares brings comfort and joy, making it a go-to treat that many enjoy again and again.

How To Serve And Decorate

To serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, cut them into neat squares using a sharp knife for clean edges. Place each square on a dessert plate for an elegant presentation.

For decoration, sprinkle a light dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon over the whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a pop of color and freshness.

You can also garnish with a small mint leaf or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair. Serve chilled to keep the custard firm and the whipped cream light, making each bite refreshing and enjoyable.

How To Make With More Delicious

To make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares even more delicious, try using high-quality ingredients like real vanilla bean or pure vanilla extract for a richer flavor.

Substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a splash of cream to make the custard creamier. For the crust, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crumbs to enhance the taste.

Incorporate a layer of fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, between the crust and custard. Finally, sweeten the whipped cream slightly more or fold in some mascarpone cheese for extra richness and texture. These small tweaks can elevate the dessert to a new level.

Additions And Variations

1. Fruit toppings: Add fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top of the whipped cream for a fruity twist. You can also layer sliced bananas or kiwi between the custard and whipped cream.

2. Chocolate version: Stir in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the custard while cooking for rich chocolate custard.

3. Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts—like toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts—over the whipped cream for some extra texture and flavor.

4. Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the custard or whipped cream for a bright, fresh flavor.

5. Coconut flair: Mix shredded coconut into the crust or sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for a tropical touch.

6. Coffee flavor: Dissolve a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the milk before cooking the custard for a

Storage Recommendations

Store Vanilla Custard Cream Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the whipped cream topping covered tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

For best texture and flavor, serve them chilled straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the custard and whipped cream can separate and lose their smooth consistency once thawed.

If needed, you can prepare the crust and custard in advance and add the whipped cream topping just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy.

(FAQs) about Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Conclusion

This Vanilla Custard Cream Squares recipe brings joy and deliciousness to any moment. Many have made and enjoyed this dessert, creating happy memories while passing time together.

The process is simple to follow, making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares easy to prepare even for those new to baking. Once you try making these squares, you will understand how straightforward and rewarding it is.

Soon, you’ll be creating this creamy, delightful treat yourself; perfect for sharing or enjoying any time you want something sweet and satisfying.

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