Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Oh yes 😋—Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are light, creamy, and utterly nostalgic. Think soft layers of pastry or sponge filled with silky vanilla custard and often topped with a light glaze or powdered sugar. Perfect for tea time or dessert!

Here’s a straightforward recipe:

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🍮 Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Ingredients

For the pastry/base (or sponge):

• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 3 Tbsp sugar

• 1 egg yolk

• 2–3 Tbsp cold water

For the custard filling:

• 2 cups (480 ml) milk

• ½ cup (100 g) sugar

• 4 Tbsp cornstarch

• 3 large egg yolks

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter

For the topping:

• Powdered sugar for dusting (or a thin icing glaze)

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Instructions

1. Make the pastry/base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, rub butter into flour and sugar until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add egg yolk and cold water, knead lightly to form dough.

4. Press into a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.

5. Bake 15–20 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

2. Make the custard

1. In a saucepan, heat milk until just simmering.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.

3. Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly.

4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.

3. Assemble the squares

1. Pour custard over the baked pastry base and smooth the top.

2. Refrigerate 2–3 hours or until custard is set.

3. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a thin icing glaze.

4. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

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Tips for Perfect Custard Squares

• Prevent lumps: whisk eggs and sugar first, then slowly temper with hot milk.

• Chill before slicing: helps custard hold its shape for neat squares.

• Optional flavor twist: add a pinch of cinnamon, lemon zest, or a splash of almond extract to the custard.

• Shortcuts: store-bought puff pastry can replace the homemade base for an easier version.

These squares are silky, creamy, and lightly sweet—a classic dessert that feels elegant yet comforting.

If you want, I can also give a no-bake version using a cookie crust and instant vanilla pudding for even faster preparation