Indulge in these elegant Vanilla Custard Cream Squares featuring crisp puff pastry layers filled with smooth, velvety vanilla custard and topped with optional whipped cream. Perfect for afternoon tea, dessert, or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pastry Layers:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Custard Cream Filling:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 6 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Whipped Cream Topping (optional):
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare Puff Pastry Layers
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Place each puff pastry sheet on a tray, prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing. Cover with parchment paper and place another baking tray on top to keep pastry flat.
Bake 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Remove top tray and parchment, then cool completely.
- Make the Custard Cream
In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and bubbling.
Remove from heat and whisk in butter until glossy and fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Squares
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides.
Place one puff pastry sheet at the bottom of the pan.
Pour the custard cream evenly over the pastry and smooth the surface.
Top with the second puff pastry sheet, pressing gently to adhere.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Add Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)
Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Spread or pipe over the top of the chilled custard squares.
Dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve
Slice into squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed but cold before baking
- Pricking the pastry and using a weighted tray prevents unwanted puffing
- Stir custard constantly to avoid lumps and scorching
- Chill custard fully before assembling for clean slices
Storage
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Best served cold and fresh
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute milk, cream, and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Can I prepare ahead?
Yes, custard squares taste even better after overnight chilling.
How do I prevent custard lumps?
Whisk ingredients thoroughly before cooking and stir constantly while heating.
Final Thoughts
These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares offer a delightful combination of flaky pastry and creamy vanilla custard, with an optional whipped cream topping that adds extra indulgence. Perfect for any dessert table or special treat.
