Introduction
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a classic, comforting dessert made with soft pastry or biscuit layers and a rich, silky vanilla custard cream in the center. This dessert is loved for its smooth texture, gentle sweetness, and elegant appearance. Perfect for family gatherings, tea time, celebrations, or as a bakery-style treat made at home, these squares combine simplicity with indulgence.
Ingredients
For the pastry layers
All-purpose flour 2½ cups
Cold unsalted butter 1 cup cubed
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Egg 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Cold milk 2–3 tablespoons if needed
For the vanilla custard cream
Whole milk 4 cups
Egg yolks 6 large
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Cornstarch ½ cup
Unsalted butter 4 tablespoons
Vanilla extract 2 tablespoons
Salt a pinch
For the topping
Powdered sugar for dusting
Optional melted white or dark chocolate for decoration
Preparation Method
Making the pastry
In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix gently. If the dough feels dry, add cold milk one tablespoon at a time until it comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap them, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Baking the pastry layers
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll each portion of dough into a thin rectangle the size of your baking tray. Place one sheet on a lined baking tray and prick it lightly with a fork. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Repeat with the second sheet. Allow both layers to cool completely.
Preparing the vanilla custard cream
In a saucepan heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth and pale. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and let it cool completely.
Assembling the custard squares
Place one pastry layer on a flat tray or dish. Spread the cooled vanilla custard evenly over the surface. Gently place the second pastry layer on top, pressing lightly to secure. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Finishing and serving
Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
History
Custard-filled pastries have roots in European baking, especially in French and Austrian cuisine. Variations of custard slices or cream squares became popular worldwide due to their balanced flavor and elegant simplicity. Vanilla custard squares remain a timeless dessert enjoyed across generations.
Benefits
This dessert provides comfort and satisfaction while offering calcium and protein from milk and eggs. When enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced lifestyle and a wonderful homemade alternative to store-bought sweets.
Nutrition Overview
Vanilla custard cream squares contain carbohydrates for energy, fats for richness, and protein from eggs and milk. Using quality ingredients enhances both flavor and nutritional value.
Tips and Variations
You can add lemon zest or almond extract to the custard for a flavor twist. Fresh berries can be layered on top of the custard before adding the second pastry layer. For a lighter version, reduce sugar slightly or use low-fat milk.
Conclusion
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a beautiful blend of creamy, flaky, and sweet textures that never go out of style. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy all lovers of classic vanilla treats.