A Classic Dessert with Layers of Sweet Elegance
If you love desserts that are smooth, creamy, and melt in your mouth, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares will quickly become a favorite. This timeless recipe combines a flaky crust, silky custard filling, and a delicate creamy topping — all cut into neat squares that are perfect for sharing.
It’s an elegant dessert that works just as well for family gatherings as it does for special occasions. Best of all? It looks fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy & Dreamy: The custard filling is rich, smooth, and lightly flavored with vanilla.
Perfectly Balanced: A flaky crust at the bottom, custard in the middle, and whipped cream on top = perfection.
Great for Parties: Cut into squares, they’re easy to serve to a crowd.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Best chilled overnight, so you can prepare it ahead of time.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
For the custard cream:
4 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
⅓ cup cornstarch
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the topping:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Puff Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit a rectangular baking pan (around 9×13).
Place on a baking sheet, prick all over with a fork, and bake until golden and crisp (about 15–20 minutes).
Let cool completely, then break or cut into a flat layer for the base.
2. Prepare the Vanilla Custard
In a saucepan, heat 3 ½ cups milk with sugar until just simmering.
In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and ½ cup milk until smooth.
Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking, then return everything to the saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and creamy (about 5 minutes).
Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Pour custard over the cooled puff pastry base, smoothing the top.
Chill for at least 2–3 hours (best overnight).
3. Make the Cream Topping
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Spread evenly over the chilled custard layer.
4. Finish & Serve
Cut into squares using a sharp knife.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Variations
Extra Flaky: Use two puff pastry layers — one for the bottom and one gently pressed on top of the custard before adding cream.
Flavor Twist: Add a hint of lemon zest to the custard for brightness.
Light Version: Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a lighter custard.
Chocolate Lover’s: Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Storage 率
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
Best enjoyed within 2–3 days.
Not ideal for freezing (the custard can separate).
Final Thoughts ✨
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a show-stopping dessert that delivers elegance without too much effort. With their flaky crust, smooth custard, and creamy topping, they’re sure to impress at any table. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a dinner party, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these squares are a guaranteed success!
