A Delightfully Creamy, Dreamy Dessert You’ll Crave
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are your new best friend. Imagine silky smooth vanilla custard layered over a tender crust, topped with fluffy whipped cream—each bite is like a little cloud of sweet bliss melting in your mouth. Trust me, this one’s a showstopper for potlucks, family dinners, or just because you deserve something special today.
Why You’ll Love Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Here’s the scoop on why this dessert is a total winner:
Silky Smooth Texture: The custard is perfectly creamy, not too thick, not too runny.
Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples that come together effortlessly.
Make-Ahead Magic: Chill overnight for flavors to deepen and make slicing easy.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike fall for the gentle vanilla sweetness.
Customizable: Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel, or a dusting of cinnamon.
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Ingredients in Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Here’s what makes this dessert so irresistible:
Shortbread or Graham Cracker Crust
Buttery, crumbly base that adds just the right crunch.
Vanilla Custard
Creamy and smooth, the heart of the dessert.
Whipped Cream
Light and fluffy topping that adds a soft finish.
Sugar and Vanilla Extract
For sweetness and that warm, inviting vanilla aroma.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to whip up this creamy delight? Let’s go:
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Crust
Mix your crust ingredients, press into a baking pan, and bake until golden and fragrant.
Make the Custard
Whisk together sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla on the stove until thickened to a smooth, velvety custard.
Layer and Chill
Pour the custard over the cooled crust and refrigerate until fully set.
Add the Whipped Cream
Spread or pipe whipped cream over the chilled custard layer.
Slice and Serve
Cut into neat squares, garnish if you like, and enjoy that creamy, dreamy goodness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 squares
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3+ hours
Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
How to Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Make your dessert moments even better by pairing with:
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add color and a burst of freshness.
Coffee or Tea: A warm drink balances the sweet creaminess perfectly.
A Dusting of Cocoa or Cinnamon: Adds a subtle spice or chocolate note.
Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent touch.
Additional Tips
Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest custard and whipped cream.
Chill Thoroughly: Custard needs time to set for clean, perfect slices.
Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance for best texture and flavor.
Variations: Swap vanilla for almond or lemon extract for a twist.
Storage: Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days for freshness.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use store-bought custard?
A1: Yes, but homemade custard offers the best flavor and texture.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A2: Substitute coconut milk and dairy-free cream alternatives.
Q3: How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
A3: Bake the crust fully before adding custard and chill thoroughly.
Q4: Can I freeze these squares?
A4: Freezing isn’t recommended as the custard texture may change.
Q5: What’s the best pan size?
A5: A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly.
Q6: Can I add gelatin for firmer custard?
A6: Yes, adding a small amount helps if you prefer a firmer texture.
Q7: How long will leftovers keep?
A7: Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Q8: Can I substitute whipped cream with frosting?
A8: You can, but whipped cream keeps it light and airy.
Q9: Is this dessert suitable for kids?
A9: Absolutely! The gentle vanilla flavor is always a hit.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust chilling time.
Conclusion
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and comforting all rolled into one easy dessert. They’re elegant enough to impress guests but simple enough to make any day special. Give this recipe a try—you’ll want to keep it bookmarked for all your future celebrations!
Print
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious vanilla custard cream squares featuring a buttery crust, smooth vanilla custard filling, and a light whipped cream topping. A perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add cold cubed butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake crust for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and let cool.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with milk.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan with sugar and cornstarch, whisking constantly.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until custard thickens and comes to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour custard over cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the custard layer.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh vanilla extract for best flavor.
- Chilling time is essential for custard to set properly.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 120mg