Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are more than just a dessert—they’re a sweet escape wrapped in a soft, creamy, and flaky square of joy. If you’re anything like me, baking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about creating warm memories and sharing love in the form of dessert.
Hi, I’m Flora Thompson, but my readers know me better as Tasty Flora. I’m a mom of two, a passionate dessert creator, and the sweet soul behind this cozy corner of the internet. My journey into baking started as a little girl watching my grandmother layer custard between warm pastry sheets, and today, I recreate that magic for families just like yours.
At Tasty Flora, every recipe tells a story—and Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are one of my most nostalgic and heartfelt creations. In this article, I’ll take you step-by-step through how to make this creamy classic from scratch. We’ll explore how it differs from other custards, common mistakes to avoid, delicious variations, and answers to all your custard questions.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Sweet Story Behind My Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Tasty Flora’s Journey to Custard Love
My love for baking began in a small, sunlit kitchen with mismatched measuring cups and a whole lot of heart. As a child, I’d sit on the counter while my grandmother stirred creamy vanilla custard over a warm stove, the air thick with the scent of sugar, milk, and love.
Years later, when I became a mom, I found myself drawn back to those moments—not just for the flavor, but for the feeling. That’s when Vanilla Custard Cream Squares became a staple in my home.
They remind me that dessert isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about connection. I’ve passed this tradition down to my children, and now I’m honored to share it with you. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe brings back memories while creating new ones.
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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
Description
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect treat for any occasion. A flaky, buttery pastry surrounds a rich vanilla custard filling, offering a delightful blend of smooth and crunchy textures. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious,
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¼ cup cold water
1 tablespoon sugar
Pinch of salt
For the Vanilla Custard:
2 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Assembling:
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the cold water and pulse until the dough comes together. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until smooth.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle large enough to fit a baking dish. Place it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing it evenly across the base. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
Make the Custard:
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s almost boiling. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Let the custard cool for a few minutes.
Assemble the Squares:
Once the pastry has cooled, spread the vanilla custard evenly on top. You can add another layer of pastry on top if desired, or leave it open for a creamier finish.
Chill the dessert in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set.
Serve:
Once set, cut the dessert into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
Make Ahead: These squares can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Custard Tips: If you want an extra creamy custard, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter to the filling. It will add richness and smoothness.
Pastry Tips: If you’re short on time, store-bought puff pastry can be used as a shortcut to make the process even quicker.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European
Why Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Are a Family Favorite
What makes these squares so special? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. The crisp, golden puff pastry layered with luscious vanilla custard delivers texture and comfort in every bite.
They’re versatile, too—serve them at brunch, during the holidays, or as a make-ahead dessert for busy weeks. They look beautiful but are secretly simple to make, which is why even beginner bakers love them.
What Are Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?
Defining This Iconic Dessert
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a dreamy, creamy dessert made by layering a thick, silky vanilla custard between crisp sheets of puff pastry. Chilled to perfection and typically dusted with powdered sugar or topped with icing, each square delivers a comforting balance of rich flavor and airy texture.
While every family may have their own version, the core of this dessert remains the same: a slow-cooked vanilla custard, cooled until firm, and cut into clean, satisfying slices. It’s a dessert that feels both humble and luxurious—ideal for sharing with loved ones.
These squares have a long-standing tradition in European baking, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, where they’re known as “vanilla slices.” But in my home kitchen, they’ve taken on a life of their own—combining classic technique with my own touch of warmth and nostalgia.
Key Ingredients for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
For the best vanilla custard, start with fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla. The eggs act as the thickening agent for the custard, while the vanilla adds that unmistakable flavor. Using fresh ingredients ensures the custard comes out silky smooth and rich in taste.
The Role of Pastry in Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
The pastry layer is just as important as the custard filling. It’s light, flaky, and perfectly complements the rich custard inside. You can make your own shortcrust pastry or purchase it ready-made if you’re in a rush. Either way, a golden, buttery pastry is the perfect vessel for your vanilla custard filling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Making the Custard Filling
Start by whisking the eggs, sugar, and milk together, then cook gently until thickened. Add in the vanilla extract and keep stirring to avoid lumps. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.
Preparing the Pastry Layer
If you’re making your own pastry, roll it out and fit it into your pan, ensuring it’s even across the bottom. Bake it lightly to set the crust before adding the custard. Once the pastry is golden, spread the custard filling evenly and top it with another layer of pastry.
Assembling the Squares
Once the custard has cooled completely, carefully cut the squares into even pieces, ensuring each square has a generous amount of custard filling. For extra decoration, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares vs. Other Custard-Based Desserts
Is Vanilla Custard the Same as Bavarian Cream?
Though both are creamy and delicious, vanilla custard is cooked and thickened using eggs and milk, while Bavarian cream is a custard-like mixture set with gelatin and whipped cream. Bavarian cream is lighter and fluffier compared to the dense, smooth texture of traditional vanilla custard.
What’s the Difference Between Custard and Crème Pâtissière?
Custard and crème pâtissière (or pastry cream) are very similar, but crème pâtissière has a thicker consistency and is often used in pastries like eclairs and fruit tarts. The difference lies in the ingredients: crème pâtissière uses a roux (flour and butter) to thicken, while custard relies on eggs alone.
Perfecting Your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Tips for a Silky-Smooth Custard
To ensure your vanilla custard is smooth and free of lumps, always cook it on low heat, stirring constantly. It’s crucial not to rush the process, as overcooking or high heat can cause the custard to curdle. Be patient, and you’ll be rewarded with a velvety filling.
Making the Pastry Extra Flaky
For the flakiest pastry, ensure your butter is cold and handle the dough as little as possible. The key to a light, crispy pastry is in the cold butter and minimal kneading.
Why Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Are a Must-Try
Versatile and Adaptable
Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or just indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, these squares are perfect for any occasion. You can even make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few days.
Easy to Customize
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Add a dash of cinnamon, top with fresh fruit, or drizzle with chocolate for an extra flair. The custard is versatile and can easily be transformed into new variations.
Conclusion
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and the joy of baking. With a smooth vanilla custard and delicate pastry, they are a treat that will leave your family and friends asking for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your kitchen journey, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Is Vanilla Custard the Same as Bavarian Cream?
No, vanilla custard is cooked with eggs and milk, while Bavarian cream uses gelatin and whipped cream, giving it a lighter texture.
What’s the Difference Between Custard and Crème Pâtissière?
Crème pâtissière is thicker and uses flour or cornstarch to thicken the mixture, while custard is a simpler egg-based cream.
What’s the Difference Between Vanilla Cream and Vanilla Custard?
Vanilla cream is usually lighter and may not contain eggs, while vanilla custard is rich, thickened with eggs, and often cooked to a pudding-like consistency.
What Is the Difference Between Custard Square and Vanilla Slice?
While both desserts contain custard, a custard square typically has a soft, gooey filling, whereas a vanilla slice features a firmer custard layer between two layers of flaky pastry.
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