If you have been dreaming of a dessert that combines flaky, golden puff pastry with a luscious, creamy filling that melts in your mouth, the Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe is absolutely the one to try. This delightful European-inspired treat is a fantastic way to showcase the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something utterly irresistible. Smooth vanilla custard meets airy whipped cream and crisp pastry layers to create an experience that’s both elegant and comforting, making it a favorite for sharing with friends and family on any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these stunning Vanilla Custard Cream Squares. Each component plays an essential role, from the crispness of the puff pastry that adds texture to the rich vanilla custard that delivers deep flavor and the light whipped cream that balances it all.
- Puff pastry sheets (1 package, thawed): Provides a buttery, flaky base and top that crisps to perfection when baked.
- Whole milk (3 cups): The creamy foundation for our custard, adding richness without heaviness.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup, divided): Adds just the right sweetness, perfectly balanced between custard and whipped cream.
- Large egg yolks (4): The secret to a silky, thick custard that holds together beautifully.
- Cornstarch (¼ cup): Acts as the thickening agent for the custard, ensuring it sets just right.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a lush smoothness and depth of flavor to the custard.
- Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (2 teaspoons): Delivers that unmistakable sweet and aromatic vanilla profile that defines this dessert.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to soft peaks and folded into the custard for a light, airy texture.
- Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons, plus extra for dusting): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream, with extra to dust on top for a pretty finish.
How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets and transfer them to the prepared tray. Prick the surface evenly with a fork to prevent excessive puffing as they bake. Put them in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and crisp up perfectly. After baking, let them cool thoroughly, and if your pastry is especially thick, slice each sheet horizontally to create thinner layers that stack beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Custard
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk with half of the granulated sugar and heat it gently over medium heat until it’s just steaming hot—no boiling here, we want to be gentle. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, the remaining sugar, and cornstarch until completely smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into this egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent scrambling. Pour everything back into the saucepan and continue cooking over medium heat, whisking nonstop until the custard thickens to a silky smooth consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for that rich, fragrant finish. Transfer the custard to a bowl and place plastic wrap directly over the surface to prevent a skin from forming as it cools completely.
Step 3: Whip the Cream and Combine
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This airy cream will lighten the rich custard while adding a subtle sweetness and smooth texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard mixture, using a spatula to maintain the luscious lightness that makes these squares so dreamy to eat.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Take one of the cooled puff pastry layers and place it on your serving dish or baking pan to serve as the base. Spread the vanilla custard cream evenly over this layer, smoothing it gently but thoroughly for neat, beautiful squares. Carefully top with the remaining puff pastry layer to complete the sandwich. Now comes the important step of chilling: refrigerate the assembled squares for at least 2 hours so the custard sets well and the flavors meld wonderfully. Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for that irresistible, delicate finishing touch.
How to Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
Garnishes
To pretty up your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, try adding fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on top alongside a light dusting of powdered sugar. A few mint leaves or edible flowers can also elevate the look for a special occasion, making each square look inviting and festive. The garnishes add a burst of color and a contrasting fresh note that complements the creamy sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light floral tea like chamomile or jasmine. If you want to add a little extra indulgence on the side, a small scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream makes an excellent companion, enhancing the creamy, comforting qualities of the Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting these squares into smaller petite portions served on dainty dessert plates for a fancy tea party vibe. Alternatively, layer them in clear glass trifle dishes with fresh berries and crushed nuts for a stunning showstopper. You can also arrange the squares neatly on a rustic wooden board for an inviting family-style dessert presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These squares keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for at least 2 days and up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Cooling in the fridge allows the custard to stay firm without becoming soggy, and the puff pastry maintains a nice balance of crispness and tenderness.
Freezing
While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze the unassembled or assembled squares if needed. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, but keep in mind the puff pastry texture may soften slightly upon freezing and thawing.
Reheating
Because this is a custard-based dessert with delicate whipped cream, reheating is not recommended as it can alter the texture and creaminess. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the ideal experience.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought vanilla pudding instead of making custard from scratch?
While store-bought vanilla pudding can save time, making custard from scratch as in the Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe delivers a richer and more authentic flavor with a perfect custard texture you just can’t replicate with pre-packaged pudding mixes.
What kind of puff pastry is best for this recipe?
Frozen puff pastry sheets work wonderfully and are very convenient. Just make sure to thaw them completely before baking to achieve that perfect golden crispness essential to this recipe.
Can I prepare the custard cream a day ahead?
Absolutely! The custard cream can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors to develop, and it’s a great tip to save time on the day you serve.
How can I get cleaner slices when cutting the squares?
Chilling the assembled dessert well is key to clean cuts. Using a sharp knife wiped between each cut prevents the custard from sticking, giving you those beautiful, neat squares every time.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular puff pastry with a gluten-free puff pastry available in some stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Just watch the baking times closely, as they may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about bringing the classic charm of custard and puff pastry to your table with the Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe. It’s a dessert that feels as elegant as it tastes comforting, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a little slice of heaven. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful squares as much as I do. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling time (minimum 2 hours)
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares featuring crisp puff pastry layers filled with smooth, creamy vanilla custard blended with whipped cream. This elegant European dessert combines rich textures and classic vanilla flavors, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed
Custard Filling
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slightly roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets and place on the prepared baking sheet. Prick all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
- Bake the pastry: Bake the prepared puff pastry sheets for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool completely. If the puff pastry sheets are thick, carefully slice each sheet horizontally in half to create thinner layers.
- Heat milk and sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk with half of the granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat until the milk is just steaming, but not boiling.
- Prepare egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining granulated sugar, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Temper eggs with milk: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook custard: Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously until it thickens and becomes smooth. This usually takes a few minutes. Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
- Finish custard: Stir the unsalted butter and vanilla extract or paste into the thickened custard. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and allow it to cool completely.
- Whip cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard until fully incorporated, creating a light custard cream.
- Assemble the squares: Place one layer of baked puff pastry in a baking dish. Spread the custard cream evenly over this layer, then top with the remaining puff pastry layer.
- Chill and serve: Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and slice into 12 squares for serving.
Notes
- For cleaner and neater slices, ensure the squares are well chilled and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut.
- These custard cream squares can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and ease of serving.
