Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a classic dessert made with layers of crisp puff pastry and smooth vanilla custard. The creamy filling is rich and flavorful, sandwiched between delicate pastry sheets and topped with powdered sugar. Perfect for entertaining or a special treat, these squares offer a delightful contrast of textures and a comforting, sweet vanilla taste.
Equipment
- 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
Instructions
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!