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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe

4.6 from 89 reviews

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla custard. This delightful dessert is chilled until set, then dusted with powdered sugar and optionally garnished with fresh fruit, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Custard

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Finishing

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and holds together when pressed.
  3. Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
  4. Prepare the Custard: While the crust is baking, combine the whole milk, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Place over low heat and whisk constantly to prevent curdling. Cook until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Add Vanilla: Remove the custard from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
  6. Assemble and Chill: Pour the prepared custard evenly over the cooled crust. Refrigerate the dish for about 2 hours or until the custard is fully set.
  7. Serve: Once set, slice the custard into squares. Dust with powdered sugar and optionally garnish with fresh fruit before serving chilled.

Notes

  • For the cleanest cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing the custard squares.
  • Make sure to whisk the custard continuously over low heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Use a greased baking dish to prevent sticking and easily remove the custard squares.
  • Chilling for at least 2 hours is essential for the custard to set properly.

Keywords: vanilla custard, custard squares, cream squares, baked custard dessert, vanilla dessert, shortbread crust, easy custard recipe