If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both luxurious and nostalgic, these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are just the ticket. With delicate layers of golden puff pastry and a cloud-like vanilla custard center, this treat is elegant enough for entertaining yet cozy enough for everyday indulgence.
✨ Flaky. Creamy. Irresistible.
Perfect for birthdays, brunches, holidays, or as a make-ahead treat for weekend cravings!
Ingredients
For the Pastry Layers
-
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
For the Vanilla Custard Filling
-
4 cups whole milk
-
1½ cups granulated sugar
-
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
-
8 large eggs, separated
-
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
2 tablespoons dark rum (optional but adds depth)
-
2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
-
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
-
Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Roll out each puff pastry sheet to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan.
-
Place each sheet between two pieces of parchment paper and sandwich with a second baking tray to prevent puffing.
-
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
-
Once cooled, cut one sheetinto squares (these will be the top layer for serving).
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base
-
In a large saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth.
-
Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
-
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 10–12 minutes).
-
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and rum, if using. Let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent skin from forming.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
-
In a clean mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
-
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Squares
-
Place one full sheet of baked pastry in the bottom of your dish or tray.
-
Pour the custard mixture on top, spreading it evenly.
-
Top with the pre-cut pastry squares.
-
Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is ideal) to let the custard set completely.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
-
Right before serving, dust the top generously with powdered sugar.
-
Use a serrated knife to follow the cut squares for clean, elegant portions.
Tips for Success
✅ Prevent soggy bottoms: Make sure the pastry is fully cooled and crisp before layering.
✅ Use cold cream: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for the best whipped cream volume.
✅ Make it ahead: This dessert actually gets better with time—let it rest overnight for clean slices and deeper flavor.
Optional Variations
-
Fruit-topped: Add a thin layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the custard and top pastry.
-
Chocolate drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the top layer for a modern twist.
-
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds between the custard and top pastry for texture.
Final Thoughts
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect balance of crisp and creamy, traditional and refined. Whether you serve them for a holiday gathering or an after-dinner indulgence, they never fail to impress.