Vanilla custard cream squares are a timeless dessert that delivers delicate sweetness, silky texture, and irresistible flavor in every bite. With layers of flaky pastry, rich homemade vanilla custard, and a creamy whipped topping, this dessert is ideal for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your craving for something elegant and comforting.
Unlike heavy or overly sweet desserts, these squares strike a beautiful balance: crisp on the outside, smooth on the inside, and subtly fragrant with vanilla. They require a little patience but very little baking skill, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned home bakers.
Ingredients
This recipe yields 9 to 12 squares, depending on how you slice them.
For the Pastry Layers
- Two sheets puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)
For the Custard Filling
- Four cups whole milk
- One cup granulated sugar
- One vanilla bean, split (or two teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
- Five large egg yolks
- One third cup cornstarch
- One tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Topping
- One cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours or overnight
- Total time: Approximately 5 hours, including chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Roll out each puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth any creases, then place on separate parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Prick the pastry all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool completely, then trim edges for clean layers if needed.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and split vanilla bean (or vanilla extract) over medium heat until just steaming. Do not boil.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
- Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened to a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Remove the vanilla bean if used.
- Pour the custard into a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and chill until cool but not fully set, about one hour.
Step 3: Assemble the Squares
- Place one pastry sheet in the bottom of a square baking dish (about 9 by 9 inches).
- Spread the cooled custard evenly over the pastry layer.
- Top with the second pastry sheet.
- Spread whipped cream or whipped topping evenly over the top layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Using a sharp knife, slice into squares or rectangles.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh berries or shaved white chocolate for added elegance.
- Serve chilled with a cup of espresso or herbal tea.
- For a special twist, drizzle with raspberry sauce or caramel before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 square) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 16 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Sugar | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 120 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Egg yolks provide protein and essential vitamins like B12 and choline
- Vanilla offers antioxidant properties and aromatic depth
- Milk-based custard delivers calcium and a naturally creamy texture
- Light whipped topping helps reduce overall richness while keeping the dessert fluffy
Tips for Best Results
- Always press plastic wrap directly on the custard surface while cooling to prevent a skin from forming.
- For extra stability, add one teaspoon of unflavored gelatin to the custard before chilling.
- Use a serrated knife or chilled knife to slice cleanly without squashing the layers.
- Allow the finished dessert to chill overnight for best flavor development and clean slicing.
Variations to Try
- Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the custard and top pastry for a fruity twist.
- Infuse the milk with a cinnamon stick or lemon zest during heating for added complexity.
- Use chocolate puff pastry or a chocolate glaze for a richer version.
- Fold whipped cream into the cooled custard for a mousse-like texture.
Vanilla custard cream squares are a beautiful example of classic European-inspired baking made easy. With their silky custard, crisp pastry, and airy topping, they offer a multi-textured bite that’s light, elegant, and satisfying.