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Delicious Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with a crispy base and creamy vanilla topping

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

These delightful squares feature layers of flaky puff pastry with a rich, creamy custard that melts in your mouth, making them a perfect dessert treat.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: French
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pastry
  • 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
For the custard
  • 500 ml whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 40 g cornstarch (cornflour)
  • 30 g unsalted butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla pod)
  • 1 pinch salt
For the glaze
  • 150 g powdered sugar (icing sugar)
  • 2-3 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Method
 

Bake the Pastry
  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
  2. Place puff pastry sheets on baking trays.
  3. Prick all over with a fork to prevent too much puffing.
  4. Cover with another tray or baking paper + weights (optional for flat layers).
  5. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
  6. Let cool completely.
Make the Custard
  1. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  2. Heat milk in a saucepan until just steaming (not boiling).
  3. Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture while whisking.
  4. Return mixture to the pan and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth custard.
  5. Remove from heat, then mix in butter, vanilla, and salt.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface) and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Layers
  1. Place one pastry sheet in a baking dish or tray.
  2. Spread all the custard evenly on top.
  3. Add the second pastry sheet over the custard and press gently.
Add Glaze
  1. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.
  2. Spread over the top pastry layer.
Let it Set
  1. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
  2. Use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares.

Notes

Chill the custard slightly before layering helps it set better on the pastry. For serving, drizzle with extra vanilla glaze and top with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation. Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.