Vanilla Custard Cream Squares 🍮

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the puff pastry to a golden, crisp perfection.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Cut it into squares or rectangles—depending on your preference and how large you want each square to be. Place the pieces of puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

To ensure the pastry puffs evenly, lightly score the edges of each square with a knife. This will create a border that rises beautifully when baked, giving the squares a neat, uniform appearance.

3. Bake the Pastry:

Bake the puff pastry squares in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Once done, remove the pastry from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Custard Filling:

While the puff pastry is baking, it’s time to make the custard filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Warm the mixture until it begins to steam, but do not let it come to a boil.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Once the milk and cream are heated, slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this helps prevent them from curdling). Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture.

Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Once thickened, remove the custard from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Assemble the Custard Cream Squares:

Now comes the fun part—assembling your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares! Take one piece of baked puff pastry and spoon a generous amount of the custard filling onto it. You want to make sure the custard is spread evenly to the edges of the pastry.

Top with a second layer of puff pastry and press down gently to sandwich the custard between the two layers. This step creates the classic layered effect of the Vanilla Custard Cream Squares.

6. Chill the Squares:

Once assembled, place the squares in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set and the flavors to meld together. The chilling step ensures that the custard firms up, making it easier to cut into neat squares.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Before serving, dust the top of the chilled squares with powdered sugar for a delicate finishing touch. You can also garnish with fresh fruit like berries or a drizzle of chocolate for added flair, but the simplicity of the powdered sugar is classic and beautiful on its own.

Cut into squares, serve, and watch them disappear in no time!

Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Custard Cream Squares:

• Puff Pastry: If you’re short on time, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly. However, if you have the time and prefer homemade, go for it! Homemade puff pastry will give you an even flakier texture.
• Custard Consistency: Be patient while making the custard—don’t rush the process. Stirring constantly and cooking the mixture slowly ensures a smooth, creamy filling.
• Customization: Feel free to mix things up by adding lemon zest or almond extract to the custard for a different flavor. You can also add a thin layer of fruit preserves or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Make-Ahead: These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares can be made a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge to maintain their freshness, and they will taste just as delicious the next day.

Serving Suggestions:

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are perfect on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of other sweet treats or beverages:

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor that complements the creamy custard.
• Coffee or Tea: These squares go beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. Whether it’s a rich espresso or a delicate herbal tea, the flavors of the custard and puff pastry will shine.
• Whipped Cream: For an added indulgence, top the custard squares with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion:

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the epitome of a sophisticated yet simple dessert. The smooth, velvety custard nestled between layers of buttery puff pastry is a perfect combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to treat yourself, these squares are the perfect dessert to impress your friends and family.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something decadent and delightful, give these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares a try. With their rich, creamy filling and delicate pastry, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!