Can I make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Vanilla Custard Cream Squares a day in advance. Refrigerate them overnight to allow the custard to set properly before serving.

What’s the best way to store Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the custard's creamy texture.

Can I substitute cornstarch for flour in the custard?

Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with flour, but you’ll need to use twice as much flour as cornstarch to achieve the same thickening effect.

How do I make a dairy-free version of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?

To make a dairy-free version, replace whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Also, use plant-based butter or margarine for the crust.

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares: The Perfect Creamy Dessert 2025

Description

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a rich and creamy dessert, featuring a silky smooth vanilla custard layered between a flaky puff pastry or a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and indulgent vanilla flavor, this dessert will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

Option 1: Puff Pastry Crust
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
Option 2: Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

3 cups whole milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
4 egg yolks
⅓ cup cornstarch
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Topping:

Powdered sugar (for dusting) OR
1 cup whipped cream

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

For Puff Pastry Crust:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into two equal-sized rectangles.
3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and prick with a fork to prevent puffing.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
For Graham Cracker Crust:
1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
2. Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan.
3. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before adding the custard.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

In a saucepan, heat 3 cups of milk over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (5-7 minutes).
Once thick, remove from heat and stir in butter until fully incorporated.
Let the custard cool slightly before assembling.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

For Puff Pastry Version:
1. Place one pastry layer at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Pour the cooled custard evenly over the pastry.
3. Place the second pastry layer on top.
For Graham Cracker Version:
1. Pour the custard over the chilled crust, smoothing it out evenly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the custard to set.
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream.
Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra vanilla-rich flavor, use real vanilla bean instead of extract.
If the custard seems too thick, whisk in a little warm milk before assembling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Avoid freezing, as it can alter the custard’s texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking & Chilling
Cuisine: European, American