Fruit Custard Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Fruit Custard Bars have quickly become a favorite in my home, especially during the warmer months. The combination of a crunchy graham cracker crust, rich and creamy custard, and a vibrant topping of fresh fruit makes for a refreshing dessert that pleases everyone at the table. My family loves how easy it is to prepare, and the kids enjoy helping arrange the fruit on top. It’s a fantastic dessert for gatherings, as it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Fruit Topping:

• ½ cup green grapes, halved
• ½ cup red grapes
• ½ cup canned peaches, chopped
• ¼ cup maraschino cherries
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch square baking pan.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Make the Custard Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
3. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks and gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking to temper them.
4. Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan while whisking. Continue to cook the custard until thick, about 5 more minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter.
6. Pour the custard evenly over the cooled crust.

Add the Fruit Topping:

1. Arrange the green grapes, red grapes, canned peaches, and maraschino cherries on top of the custard layer.
2. Lightly press the fruits into the custard so they adhere.

Chill and Serve:

1. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
2. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
3. Cut into squares and enjoy!

These fruit custard bars are a creamy, fruity delight with a perfect combination of rich custard and fresh fruit on a crumbly crust. Enjoy this refreshing dessert!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 squares
• Calories per serving: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 12 g
• Protein: 3 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice into squares and arrange on a serving platter.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of elegance.
• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
• Great for picnics or potlucks as they hold up well and are easy to transport.

Additional Tips

1. Chill Thoroughly: Ensure that the bars are well chilled to achieve the perfect set before slicing.
2. Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap out the fruits based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi would work well.
3. Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the sugar in the custard filling to taste, especially if your fruit is very sweet.
4. Graham Cracker Alternative: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
5. Double the Recipe: If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Custard Bars: Substitute chocolate milk for whole milk and add cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolatey twist.
• Coconut Custard Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust and use coconut milk instead of whole milk in the custard for a tropical flavor.
• Berry Custard Bars: Replace the fruit topping with a mixture of fresh berries, like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a light dessert option.
• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Ideal for holiday gatherings or birthday parties, these bars can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: If you’d like to make them ahead, freeze the uncut bars in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before cutting and serving.
• Tip: Avoid freezing with the fruit topping; add fresh fruit after thawing for the best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat milk?
   Yes, but the custard may be less rich. Whole milk is recommended for a creamier texture.
2. How do I know when the custard is thick enough?
   The custard should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear trail when you run your finger through it.
3. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
   Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be used, but ensure it is ripe and suitable for topping.
4. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products.
5. What if I can’t find graham cracker crumbs?
   You can crush digestive biscuits or use another type of cookie for the crust.
6. How do I prevent the crust from burning?
   Keep an eye on the crust as it bakes; if it begins to darken too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
7. Can I add more fruits to the topping?
   Yes, feel free to add your favorite fruits; just ensure they are compatible with the custard flavor.
8. How long do these bars last?
   They can last in the refrigerator for about a week if stored properly.
9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Substitute dairy-free butter and use almond or coconut milk in the custard.
10. Is this recipe good for kids?
    Yes, it’s a kid-friendly dessert that’s colorful and fun to eat!

Conclusion

Fruit Custard Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the richness of custard with the freshness of fruit, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just want a sweet treat to brighten your day, these bars are sure to impress. They are easy to make, visually appealing, and bursting with flavor. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as my family does!

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