The Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delicate balance of smooth, silky custard set in a crisp, buttery pastry shell. Every bite is a little slice of heaven, with the perfect sweetness from the vanilla and the richness of the cream.
These squares not only look gorgeous but also have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s sure to impress any guest or satisfy your own dessert cravings. Whether it’s for a special celebration or just because, they make for the perfect treat to share with friends and family. You can even top them off with fresh berries for a little extra pop of flavor and color!
Full Recipe:
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1 packet of shortcrust pastry
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2 cups full-fat milk
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1/2 cup sugar
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1 vanilla bean or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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3 large egg yolks
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the shortcrust pastry and press it into a tart pan, then blind-bake it for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let it cool.
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In a saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, and vanilla over medium heat until it begins to steam.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
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Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens into a custard.
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Once thickened, remove from the heat, stir in the butter, and let the custard cool slightly.
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Pour the custard into the cooled shortcrust pastry and smooth out the surface.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
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Before serving, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then pipe or spoon onto the custard.
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours (includes chilling time)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Introduction to Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a perfect dessert for those who love indulgent treats with a comforting, nostalgic flavor. The buttery, flaky crust combined with a velvety custard filling offers a decadent bite that melts in your mouth. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar and fresh mint, these squares are not only visually appealing but also deliver a flavor profile that will delight any dessert lover.
What sets Vanilla Custard Cream Squares apart from other traditional desserts is their texture. The firm crust provides a crunchy base, while the custard filling is smooth and rich, offering the perfect contrast. The addition of whipped cream makes the custard airy, providing a light finish to each bite. This dessert is easy to make but offers a sophisticated look and taste, making it a hit at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or even as an everyday treat.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures
The vanilla custard itself is the star of this recipe. Its rich, creamy texture is enhanced by the use of whole milk and heavy cream, which give it a satisfying thickness without being overly heavy. The subtle vanilla flavor is both sweet and fragrant, elevating the custard to new heights. The butter-based crust serves as the perfect foil to the creamy filling, providing a rich base that enhances the overall experience.
One of the keys to achieving the perfect custard is to cook it carefully. By tempering the eggs with a small amount of the hot milk before combining it with the rest of the liquid, you prevent the eggs from curdling and creating an undesirable texture. This method ensures that the custard is smooth and silky, which is what makes these squares so irresistible.
The Art of Making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is straightforward, but there are a few important tips to ensure success. First, be sure to let the crust cool completely before adding the custard filling. If the crust is still warm when you pour the custard on top, the custard may soften and lose its firm texture. It’s also important to chill the dessert for at least four hours, allowing the custard to set properly. This resting time will help the squares hold together when you cut them, resulting in perfect, neat slices.
Additionally, the whipped cream should be gently folded into the cooled custard. This lightens the filling and gives it an airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense crust. If you’re not a fan of mint, you can easily substitute with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder. The versatility of this dessert makes it easy to customize based on personal preferences or seasonal ingredients.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best aspects of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is that they can be made ahead of time. In fact, the dessert benefits from sitting in the fridge for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. This makes it an excellent choice for events where you need to prepare desserts in advance. Simply prepare the squares the night before, let them chill, and serve the next day.
In terms of storage, these squares should be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The custard will maintain its creamy consistency, and the crust will remain crisp as long as it’s stored properly. If you need to freeze the squares, it’s recommended to freeze them without the powdered sugar topping. Once frozen, thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best results.
Customization Ideas
While the original recipe calls for a classic buttery crust, you can easily experiment with other types of crusts. For example, a graham cracker or shortbread crust can add a different texture and flavor, providing a fresh twist on the traditional version. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust.
The custard filling is also versatile. While vanilla is the star flavor, you can infuse the custard with other ingredients to create new variations. For example, try adding a bit of citrus zest like lemon or orange to give the custard a refreshing note. Or, for a more decadent touch, incorporate melted chocolate or espresso powder into the custard to create a chocolate or coffee-flavored variation. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dessert to your taste preferences or the season.
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares for Special Occasions
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Their refined look and comforting taste make them a crowd-pleaser, and their ease of preparation ensures that you can spend more time enjoying your guests than stressing over the details. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply treating yourself, these squares are sure to impress.
For a festive touch, consider adding holiday-themed garnishes. In the winter, you can decorate them with small sugared cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon. During spring and summer, fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a vibrant and delicious addition to the dessert. The versatility of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares makes them suitable for every season and every type of celebration.
Conclusion: Why Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Should Be Your Go-To Dessert
In conclusion, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delightful and versatile dessert that everyone can enjoy. Their combination of creamy custard and crisp crust, paired with the lightness of whipped cream, makes them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them at a special event or simply making them to enjoy with family and friends, these squares will never disappoint.
The beauty of this dessert lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a stunning dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. The rich custard, delicate pastry, and creamy whipped topping come together to form a dessert that’s comforting, elegant, and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a dessert that brings joy with every bite, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a perfect choice. They embody the timeless appeal of classic flavors, with just the right amount of indulgence and elegance to make any occasion feel special.