Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe | Easy Dessert Pastry Idea
"These vanilla custard cream squares are rich, creamy, and layered with flaky pastry. A classic dessert recipe that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something sweet and elegant."
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet or rectangular pan
- Knife for slicing squares
- Airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry (or sponge cake base)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 6 egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch (or flour)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for topping)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for topping)
- Optional: fresh fruit, nuts, or cocoa powder for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry Base: Bake puff pastry sheets at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp. Cool completely.
- Cook Custard: Heat milk with vanilla until warm. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl. Slowly add warm milk, whisking constantly. Return to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent skin. Cool.
- Layer Dessert: Place one pastry sheet in dish. Spread custard evenly over it. Top with second pastry sheet. Chill for 3–4 hours (overnight preferred).
- Whipped Topping: Whip cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over chilled custard layer.
- Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa. Slice into neat squares with a sharp knife. Garnish with fruit or nuts if desired.
Notes
- Custard consistency: Cook until thick enough to coat a spoon.
- Pastry options: Puff pastry for crispness, sponge cake for softness.
- Flavor twists: Add chocolate, fruit puree, or nut toppings.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Avoid freezing fully assembled squares.
- Serving occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or afternoon tea.