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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares Recipe

4.4 from 131 reviews

Delightfully light and elegant Vanilla Custard Cream Squares featuring flaky puff pastry layers sandwiched with creamy, homemade vanilla custard and whipped cream. Perfect for a sophisticated dessert that is both impressive and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)

Vanilla Custard

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Finishing

  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and gently roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into evenly sized squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  2. Bake the Pastry Squares: Place the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Prick the center of each square with a fork to prevent excessive puffing. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
  3. Make the Vanilla Custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened and bubbling. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking in the hot milk mixture to avoid curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes more until thick enough to coat a spoon. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then cover with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface and chill for at least 1 hour.
  4. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Avoid over-beating to prevent clumping.
  5. Assemble the Squares: Place one pastry square on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of chilled vanilla custard leaving borders around the edges. Spoon a heaping amount of whipped cream on top of the custard. Top with another pastry square to create a sandwich. Repeat with remaining squares and fillings.
  6. Finishing Touches: Optionally dust the assembled squares with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. You may also add melted chocolate drizzle, fresh berries, or chopped nuts as desired.

Notes

  • Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
  • Pressing plastic wrap directly onto the custard prevents skin formation.
  • Temper the egg yolks carefully by gradually adding hot milk mixture to avoid scrambled eggs.
  • Chill the custard thoroughly for the best texture and ease of assembly.
  • Customize toppings with fruits or chocolate for added flavor and presentation appeal.

Keywords: vanilla custard, cream squares, puff pastry dessert, custard cream, whipped cream dessert, elegant dessert, baked puff pastry