Indulge in the creamy decadence of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, a delightful dessert that is both elegant and comforting. Each square features a buttery, flaky crust layered with a rich, velvety vanilla custard, topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these squares offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1-2 tbsp cold water (as needed)
For the custard filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Optional: Fresh berries or fruit slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add vanilla extract and mix in enough cold water to form a dough. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the crust:
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit an 8×8-inch baking dish. Press the dough into the bottom of the dish evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the custard filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add about ½ cup of the hot milk to the mixture to temper the eggs, whisking constantly.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining milk and cook over low heat, stirring frequently until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until completely melted and combined.
- Assemble the squares:
- Pour the custard filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the squares to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until set.
- Serve:
- Once set, slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh berries if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 16 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
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