If you have a sweet tooth and love desserts that feel like a cozy hug from the inside, you are going to adore this Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe. Imagine creamy, velvety custard layered over a tender buttery crust, topped with luscious fluffy whipped cream—all coming together in perfect harmony. This delightful dessert not only tastes heavenly but also carries a charming simplicity that makes it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, tea time, or whenever you crave a touch of indulgence. Let me take you through this lovely recipe that’s just waiting to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these irresistible Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, you only need a handful of everyday ingredients that work magic together. Each one plays a special role—whether it’s adding structure, creaminess, sweetness, or that irresistible vanilla aroma.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy, tender base for the crust that holds everything beautifully.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the crust smoothly while ensuring a delicate crumb texture.
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Adds richness and flakiness to the crust for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
- Whole milk: Makes the custard luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard layer perfectly without overpowering it.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the custard to just the right consistency to hold its shape when sliced.
- Large egg yolks: Enrich the custard and help it set beautifully with a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with that classic, comforting vanilla flavor we all love.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, it crowns the custard with a light, airy finish.
- Powdered sugar (for whipped cream): Sweetens the whipped cream gently, balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or greasing it well. In a food processor, pulse the flour and powdered sugar together to blend, then add the cold, cubed butter. Pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs—this ensures a tender, buttery crust that bakes to perfection. Press this crumbly mix evenly into your pan, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the edges turn a delicate golden color. Once done, set it aside to cool—this crust will be the trusty base for your custard.
Step 2: Make the Custard Filling
While the crust cools, focus on the custard. Whisk granulated sugar and cornstarch together in a medium saucepan to create a smooth base. In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolks with whole milk, whisking until well blended. Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly into the saucepan with the sugar and cornstarch, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook this over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the custard thickens and just starts to bubble—this signals it’s ready. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, which will give your custard that mouthwatering aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious vanilla custard over the cooled crust, smoothing the top into an even layer. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the custard set firmly. This chilling step is crucial as it transforms the layers into slices that hold together beautifully.
Step 4: Whip the Topping
Right before you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. This fluffy whipped cream will add a light, creamy texture that contrasts delightfully with the smooth custard and crisp crust. Spread it generously over the custard surface, creating an inviting finishing touch.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, cut the dessert into squares—16 servings to share or savor slowly by yourself. Serve chilled and enjoy each bite of this nostalgic, creamy goodness that’s sure to sparkle on any dessert table.
How to Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe even further, consider adding fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries on top. A light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can add a subtle twist without overwhelming the delicate vanilla flavor. A few mint leaves bring a refreshing pop of color and aroma to each square.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a vanilla bean latte, or even a light herbal tea. If you want to add a bit of sophistication, serve it alongside a small scoop of your favorite vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream—this contrast in temperature and texture is simply divine.
Creative Ways to Present
You can make these custard squares the star of any gathering by presenting them on a beautiful cake stand or vintage platter. For an extra special touch, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange on decorative toothpicks to serve as elegant finger food at parties. Layering a few squares in a clear glass trifle bowl with whipped cream and fruit creates a stunning, layered dessert that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Vanilla Custard Cream Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled maintains the custard’s creamy texture and prevents the whipped cream from weeping. For best flavor, enjoy them within this timeframe.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best done with some caution. The custard layer can lose its texture when frozen, and the whipped cream may not hold up well after thawing. If you choose to freeze, cover the squares tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and be prepared for a slightly softer texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you’d like a warm dessert experience, try reheating a dollop of custard separately and serve it over your chilled crust and whipped topping for an interesting warm-and-cold combination.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk provides the rich creaminess essential for the custard’s silky texture, so while you can substitute lower-fat milk, the custard may turn out thinner and less luscious.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking. Just be sure it includes a binding agent for the crust to hold together properly.
How long does the custard need to chill before serving?
At least 4 hours in the refrigerator is needed for the custard to fully set into a sliceable consistency. Overnight chilling will make it even firmer and easier to cut.
Can I prepare the crust and custard a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, preparing these layers the day before makes the process smoother and gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully. Just add the whipped cream topping on the day you plan to serve.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped briefly in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps cut through the custard cleanly without smearing and keeps your squares looking picture-perfect.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about mastering a recipe like this Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe—it feels special yet approachable, ideal for sharing or treating yourself. The balance of creamy custard, flaky crust, and airy whipped cream makes each bite pure joy. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and create your own moments of happiness with every square you serve!
Print
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these decadent Vanilla Custard Cream Squares featuring a buttery baked crust topped with a smooth, homemade vanilla custard and a luscious whipped cream layer. Perfectly set after chilling, these squares are an elegant dessert that balances creamy texture with a crisp base, making them ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Custard
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the squares later.
- Make the Crust Mixture. Using a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, forming a buttery dough base.
- Press and Bake the Crust. Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a uniform layer. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the crust turns a light golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool completely.
- Mix Sugar and Cornstarch. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch, preparing the base for the custard filling.
- Combine Egg Yolks and Milk. In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg yolks with the whole milk until well blended.
- Incorporate Egg Mixture into Sugar Base. Slowly pour the egg yolk and milk mixture into the saucepan with the sugar and cornstarch, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Custard. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens and reaches a boil, indicating it’s properly set.
- Add Vanilla Extract. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that classic vanilla flavor.
- Pour Custard over Crust. Pour the warm custard evenly over the cooled crust and smooth out the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Chill to Set. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the custard to fully set and the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Whipped Cream Topping. Before serving, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, creating a light and airy topping.
- Top the Custard. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled custard layer, adding a creamy finish to your squares.
- Serve. Cut the dessert into 16 squares and serve chilled for a refreshing, creamy treat.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is cold when adding to the flour mixture to achieve a flaky crust.
- Whisk constantly when cooking the custard to prevent it from burning or curdling.
- For easier cutting, let the dessert chill fully as the custard needs to be firm.
- You can garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and presentation.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry to cut clean slices.
