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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 squares

Description

Flaky, golden puff pastry layered with silky, rich vanilla custard makes this dessert a showstopper for any occasion. Sweet, light, and decadently smooth, these squares are perfect for entertaining or savoring with coffee.


Ingredients

For the Pastry Layers:

  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed

For the Custard Filling:

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Topping:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Bake the Puff Pastry:
    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Place pastry sheets on lined baking trays, dock with a fork, and cover with parchment and another tray to keep them flat.
    • Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely. Cut one sheet into squares before assembly.
  2. Make the Custard:
    • Whisk egg yolks, sugar (half), and cornstarch in a bowl.
    • Heat milk, cream, and remaining sugar in a saucepan until steaming.
    • Temper eggs with hot milk, then return mixture to saucepan.
    • Cook on medium-low, whisking constantly until thick.
    • Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla, and let cool to room temp.
  3. Assemble:
    • Place one whole pastry sheet in a dish.
    • Spread custard evenly over it.
    • Top with the pre-cut squares of the second pastry sheet.
    • Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Serve:
    • Dust with powdered sugar.
    • Cut and serve using the top layer as a guide.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes