Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are your answer. This melt-in-your-mouth treat combines flaky puff pastry with rich, velvety vanilla custard — the perfect balance of creamy and crisp. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just want to impress your family, this easy vanilla custard dessert brings bakery-quality indulgence right to your kitchen.

Ingredients (Serves 9–12)

For the Pastry Layers

Ingredient	Amount
Puff pastry sheets (thawed)	2 sheets
Powdered sugar	For dusting

For the Vanilla Custard Cream

Ingredient	Amount
Whole milk	3 cups
Egg yolks	4 large
Granulated sugar	¾ cup
Cornstarch	⅓ cup
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
Pure vanilla extract	2 teaspoons
Heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)	½ cup

For the Topping (Optional)

Ingredient	Amount
Powdered sugar	¼ cup
Whipped cream	For garnish

How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

1. Prepare the Pastry Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly to even the edges.
3. Place them on parchment-lined baking trays and prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
5. Let them cool completely, then gently trim to fit your baking dish.

2. Make the Vanilla Custard Cream

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 ½ cups of milk over medium heat until just steaming (do not boil).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, flour, and the remaining ½ cup of milk until smooth and lump-free.
3. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, whisking continuously until it thickens into a smooth, creamy custard (about 5–7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
6. Cover the custard’s surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Dessert

1. Line a square or rectangular dish (8×8 or 9×9 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Place one sheet of baked puff pastry at the bottom.
3. Pour the custard evenly over the pastry, smoothing the surface.
4. Top with the second pastry sheet and press gently.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).

4. Serve

1. Once set, remove from the fridge and dust generously with powdered sugar.
2. Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife (wipe between cuts for clean slices).
3. Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, and enjoy the creamy, flaky perfection!

Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Custard Dessert

• Use pure vanilla extract or a real vanilla bean for a luxurious aroma.
• Chill thoroughly before slicing — this helps the layers hold beautifully.
• For a twist, layer with a thin spread of fruit jam or caramel sauce before the top pastry.

Final Note

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the definition of indulgence — silky, rich, and perfectly balanced with that golden puff pastry crunch. Whether you call it a homemade vanilla slice or a custard cream bar, one bite will transport you straight to a Parisian café.