Here’s a luscious Vanilla Custard Cream Squares recipe with layers of buttery pastry and silky custard—reminiscent of a classic mille-feuille but easier to make!
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins (+ chilling) | Total Time: 4+ hours
Servings: 9 squares
Ingredients:
For the Layers:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Custard Cream:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze (Optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk or lemon juice
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Bake the Pastry Layers:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry sheets to 9×9-inch squares (trim if needed). Prick all over with a fork.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water).
- Bake for 15-18 mins until golden and puffed. Press flat with another pan while warm to deflate. Cool completely.
- Make the Custard:
- Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl until pale.
- Heat milk in a saucepan until steaming (do not boil). Slowly pour ½ cup into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return everything to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick (2-3 mins).
- Off heat, stir in butter, vanilla, and salt. Cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface) and cool to room temp.
- Assemble:
- Place one pastry layer on a tray. Spread all the custard evenly over it. Top with the second pastry layer.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the top layer.
- Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for 3+ hours (or overnight) to set. Slice into squares with a sharp knife.
Pinterest Keywords:
- Easy Vanilla Custard Squares
- Classic Mille-Feuille Dessert
- Creamy Puff Pastry Layers
- No-Bake Custard Slice
- French Vanilla Slice
Pro Tips:
- For neat slices, chill overnight and wipe the knife between cuts.
- Add fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder for flair!
Let me know if you’d like a quick version (using instant pudding) or dietary swaps (vegan, gluten-free). 😊🍮
Enjoy!