Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe

If you’re searching for an elegant yet simple dessert that will impress your family and friends, these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the answer. Perfectly light and creamy, with layers of flaky puff pastry, velvety custard, and fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is a showstopper. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more formal celebrations. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!

What Are Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a layered dessert featuring a buttery puff pastry base, a smooth and creamy vanilla custard filling, and a topping of freshly whipped cream, finished with a second layer of pastry dusted with powdered sugar. Originating from European-style pastries, these squares are beloved for their light yet rich texture, making them a favorite choice for those who love a balanced, sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a balance between indulgence and simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are straightforward, and the result is a delicious dessert with contrasting textures that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
• For the filling:
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 8 eggs, separated
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For the whipped cream:
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, plus more for dusting

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Baking sheets
• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Knife for cutting pastry squares

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place each puff pastry sheet on a separate baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until each sheet turns a beautiful golden brown. Once done, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool completely. This will form the base and top layer of your dessert.

2. Make the Vanilla Custard

Pour 3 cups of the milk into a large saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it just begins to boil. While the milk is heating, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the flour, vanilla extract, and the remaining 1 cup of milk to the egg mixture, stirring until smooth.

Once the milk reaches a gentle boil, gradually pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

3. Incorporate the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the warm custard mixture, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. This will give your custard a light, airy texture.

4. Assemble the Custard Layer

Take one of the cooled puff pastry sheets and place it at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard over the pastry, spreading it evenly across the dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator and allow the custard to cool and firm up for about 1-2 hours.

5. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

While the custard is chilling, whip the heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Once the custard has fully set, spread the whipped cream evenly over the custard layer.

6. Add the Final Puff Pastry Layer

Cut the second puff pastry sheet into 15 squares and carefully place these squares over the whipped cream layer, slightly overlapping if necessary. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for another 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Finish and Serve

Just before serving, dust the top with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar. This final touch adds an extra hint of sweetness and a beautiful finishing touch to your dessert. Serve the squares chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Custard

• Avoid Overheating the Custard: When cooking the custard, make sure to keep the heat at medium and stir continuously to prevent it from scorching or becoming too thick.
• Don’t Overbeat the Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites just until stiff peaks form; overbeating can cause them to become dry, making it difficult to fold into the custard.
• Let the Puff Pastry Cool Completely: Make sure your puff pastry sheets are fully cooled before layering; this prevents them from becoming soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flavor Twist: Add a hint of lemon zest to the custard for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Lover’s Version: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over the whipped cream layer before adding the top puff pastry squares.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia in place of granulated sugar for a reduced-sugar version.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares on a decorative plate, garnished with a fresh mint sprig or a few berries for a pop of color. The layers are visually appealing, so consider slicing them into clean squares or rectangles for a neat presentation.

Storage and Leftovers

These custard squares are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing them in a single layer, then transferring them to a container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and serve chilled.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pair your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries, or enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The lightness of the dessert pairs well with both hot and cold beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these custard squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard and assemble the dessert up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Q: Can I use a different type of pastry?
Yes, filo dough can be a lighter alternative to puff pastry, but it will result in a different texture.

Q: What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can whisk the egg whites by hand, but it will take longer to achieve stiff peaks. Be prepared for a bit of an arm workout!

Conclusion

There you have it — a delicious recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares that is sure to be a hit! Light, fluffy, and bursting with creamy goodness, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious desserts!

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