Go Back
+ servings
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Decadent Vanilla Custard Cream Squares You’ll Love to Share

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares offer a silky smooth custard filling on a buttery crust, perfect for sharing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 9 squares
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • saucepan
  • Baking pan

Ingredients
  

For the Crust

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour for a sturdy yet tender base that holds the custard beautifully.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened to create a rich, flaky crust.
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar sweetens the crust and enhances its flavor.
  • 1 large egg this acts as a binder for the crust.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds a lovely, fragrant touch to the crust.

For the Custard Filling

  • 2 cups whole milk for a creamy texture that makes this custard truly luscious.
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar enhances the sweetness of the custard.
  • 4 large egg yolks bringing richness and depth of flavor to the custard.
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch works as a thickening agent.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter enriches the filling and adds a silky smoothness.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract infuses the custard with a warm, inviting vanilla flavor.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
  • Combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until coarse crumbs. Add ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until dough forms.
  • Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  • In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of whole milk and ½ cup of granulated sugar over medium heat until just about to boil.
  • Whisk together 4 large egg yolks and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch in a bowl until smooth.
  • Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return to the saucepan to cook the custard.
  • Stir the mixture on medium heat until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  • Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until incorporated, then pour over the baked crust.
  • Bake for an additional 25 minutes until the custard is set and slightly puffed.
  • Let cool completely at room temperature, then slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure the squares cool completely before cutting for a cleaner slice. Can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg
Keyword baking, custard, dessert, rich dessert, squares, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!