If you’re in the mood for an irresistible dessert that melts in your mouth, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares will absolutely sweep you off your feet. Imagine buttery, crisp puff pastry giving way to a lusciously silky vanilla custard center, all crowned with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. These squares are perfect for family get-togethers or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon. They’re as easy to make as they are beautiful to serve, with that classic, comforting flavor that’s always a crowd favorite.

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a handful of pantry staples and a touch of dairy richness, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares come together in delicious harmony. Each ingredient plays a key role, creating that dreamy contrast of crisp pastry and smooth, delicate custard.

Puff pastry sheet (thawed): Delivers those signature golden, flaky layers that form the base and top for the luscious custard.
Whole milk: Gives the custard its creamy body and luxurious mouthfeel.
Heavy cream: Adds even more richness and velvetiness to the custard.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overpowering the subtle vanilla flavor.
Large egg yolks: Essential for thickening the custard and providing a silky-smooth texture.
Cornstarch: An effective thickener that helps the custard keep its sliceable shape once chilled.
Unsalted butter: Gives the custard just a touch of extra silkiness and a shiny finish.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with its iconic, aromatic flavor—be sure to use pure vanilla for best results.
Salt: Just a pinch balances all the sweetness and makes every flavor pop.
Powdered sugar: The picture-perfect finish, dusted on just before serving for extra elegance.

How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold your thawed sheet of puff pastry and lay it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a fork to prick it all over—this simple trick keeps it from puffing up uncontrollably! Bake for about 15-18 minutes until you see it turn beautifully golden and crisp. Once out of the oven, let it cool completely on a rack so it stays flaky and doesn’t go soggy.

Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream

While your pastry is cooling, pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat just until it simmers—you’ll want to see small bubbles forming around the edge, not a rolling boil. Heating at a gentle pace ensures your custard will be smooth and won’t scorch.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Base

Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until the mixture turns pale and smooth. This step is crucial, as it sets up that creamy, silken texture that makes Vanilla Custard Cream Squares so special.

Step 4: Temper and Cook the Custard

Slowly pour the hot milk-cream mixture into the egg yolk bowl, whisking constantly—this “tempering” step stops the eggs from scrambling. Pour everything back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, gently stirring the whole time. In about five minutes, the custard will thicken and bubble. Don’t step away; continuous stirring gives you that dreamy, lump-free filling.

Step 5: Finish the Custard

Once thick, pull the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract, letting them melt in for extra gloss and flavor. Let your custard cool slightly—set it aside for around 5 minutes so it’s easier to spread over the pastry.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread the still-warm custard evenly over your now-cooled puff pastry. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula for smooth, even coverage. Move the tray to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This step is key—it helps the custard fully set up, so you can cut perfect squares later.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Once fully chilled, use a sharp knife to slice your creation into twelve neat squares. Just before serving, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar for that classic bakery-style finish. Get ready for the chorus of “oohs” and “aahs”!

How to Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Garnishes

Elevate your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with a shower of powdered sugar, a few curls of shaved dark chocolate, or fresh berries on top. Even a single mint leaf adds a lovely pop of color and aroma that makes each bite feel a little bit magical!

Side Dishes

These squares are absolutely delicious with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant Earl Grey tea. If you want to create a dessert platter, pair them with sliced fruit like strawberries, kiwi, or peaches for a bright, refreshing balance to their creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, stack Vanilla Custard Cream Squares on a tiered dessert stand, or arrange them in colorful cupcake wrappers for a modern twist. Try serving miniature versions as part of a dessert tasting flight, or drizzle the tops with a little caramel or raspberry sauce for an extra flourish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Simply cover your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, keeping their flavor and creamy texture intact.

Freezing

If you’d like to extend their lifespan, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares can be frozen individually. Wrap each square in plastic, then in foil, and pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best taste and texture, enjoy within one month—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

These treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you do prefer them just slightly warmed, a brief 10-15 seconds in the microwave (post-thaw) will take off the chill, but be careful not to melt the custard.

FAQs

Can I make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, they’re often best when chilled overnight. This gives the custard plenty of time to set, making them easier to slice and even creamier to eat. Just assemble as directed, cover, and pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use store-bought custard instead of homemade?

Yes, if you’re short on time you can use high-quality pre-made custard. Just spread it over your cooled puff pastry and proceed with the chilling step. While homemade brings an unbeatable depth of flavor, store-bought can be a convenient shortcut in a pinch.

Why do I need to prick the puff pastry before baking?

Pricking the pastry keeps it from puffing up too much in the oven, ensuring you have a flat, crisp base perfect for spreading the custard. If you skip this step, you might end up with uneven layers—so don’t forget!

How do I cut Vanilla Custard Cream Squares neatly?

For perfect, bakery-style cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each slice. This helps the blade glide cleanly through the custard and pastry without sticking or dragging.

Can I add flavors or spices to the custard?

Definitely! While classic Vanilla Custard Cream Squares rely on pure vanilla essence, you can add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or even a splash of almond extract for a little twist. Just remember, a little goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

If you have a soft spot for creamy, custardy desserts, don’t miss out on making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares at home. They’re a joy to bake, serve, and share—and always leave guests asking for seconds (and the recipe). Go ahead—treat yourself and your loved ones to this dreamy, classic delight!

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy decadence of these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, a delightful dessert featuring a buttery puff pastry base topped with a luscious homemade vanilla custard.

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry:

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Vanilla Custard:

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Additional:

Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Bake Puff Pastry: Place the puff pastry on the baking sheet, prick it with a fork, and bake until golden and crisp. Let it cool.
Prepare Custard: Heat milk and cream, mix sugar, yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Combine mixtures, cook until thickened, and add butter and vanilla.
Assemble: Spread custard over the pastry and refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
Serve: Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!