Here’s a delicious Vanilla Custard Cream Square recipe—soft, creamy, and perfect for dessert or afternoon tea:
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar or grated chocolate
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, softened butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until it forms a crumbly dough.
- Press the dough evenly into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
- In a saucepan, heat milk until just warm.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Gradually add warm milk to the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble:
- Pour the warm custard over the cooled baked base.
- Spread evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.
4. Serve:
- Cut into squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle grated chocolate on top.
- Serve chilled for the creamiest texture.
💡 Tips for Perfect Custard Squares:
- Stir constantly while cooking custard to avoid lumps.
- Let the base cool completely before adding custard to prevent it from soaking and becoming soggy.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard.
If you want, I can also give a quick 20-minute no-bake version of vanilla custard squares that’s creamy and perfect for beginners.
Do you want me to share that version?