Creamy Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares: A Heavenly Layered Dessert

Introduction

If you love soft, creamy, and light desserts that melt in your mouth, then these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are for you. Featuring layers of flaky puff pastry and silky-smooth vanilla custard cream, this classic dessert is both elegant and comforting. It's the perfect balance of richness and simplicity, often found in European bakeries and beloved across generations.

Whether you're baking for a family gathering, a brunch, or simply indulging yourself on a weekend, these squares are guaranteed to be a hit. Follow along to learn how to make them from scratch — with easy steps and pantry-friendly ingredients.

What Are Vanilla Custard Cream Squares?

Also known as mille-feuille in French or krempita in Eastern Europe, these squares are a layered dessert typically made with puff pastry and a vanilla custard cream filling. Once chilled and set, they’re dusted with powdered sugar and cut into neat squares. The contrast between the airy pastry and the luscious custard is what makes them truly special.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Layers:

• 2 sheets of frozen puff pastry, thawed

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 6 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out each sheet of puff pastry to fit an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan.
3. Place each sheet on a parchment-lined baking tray. Use a fork to poke holes across the surface to prevent puffing.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely, then cut one sheet to fit the bottom of your square pan. Reserve the second sheet for the top layer.

Step 2: Make the Custard Cream

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
3. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it, whisking constantly.
4. Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the rest of the milk, whisking continuously.
5. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (5–8 minutes).
6. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
7. Let custard cool slightly, then pour over the bottom puff pastry layer in your pan. Smooth the top evenly.

Step 3: Layer and Chill

1. Place the second pastry sheet on top of the custard. Gently press to secure.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing.
2. Use a sharp serrated knife and clean it between cuts to maintain clean edges.

Tips for Perfect Cream Squares

• Use full-fat milk or even add a splash of heavy cream for a richer custard.
• Chill thoroughly — the custard needs time to firm up for clean slicing.
• For an elegant touch, pipe a swirl of whipped cream on top of each square.
• You can flavor the custard with lemon zest, almond extract, or even a dash of cinnamon for variation.

Serving Ideas

These squares are versatile and can be presented in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to impress your guests or enjoy at home:

- Serve chilled with fresh berries on the side - Add a drizzle of raspberry or chocolate sauce for contrast - Garnish each piece with a mint leaf for a sophisticated look - Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or herbal tea

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can make these custard cream squares up to 2 days in advance. In fact, they taste better after sitting in the fridge overnight. Store them tightly covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the custard can change.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Yields 9 Squares)

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 150mg

*Nutrition values are estimated and may vary depending on brands used and portion size.

Why Everyone Loves This Dessert

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a nostalgic treat. Their delicate layers offer a light finish to any meal, and the contrast between buttery pastry and soft cream is simply addictive. They’re elegant enough for holidays and simple enough for everyday indulgence. It’s one of those desserts that will have guests asking for seconds — and the recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you're craving a dessert that's light, luxurious, and loaded with vanilla flavor, you can't go wrong with these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares. The combination of simple ingredients and classic techniques makes this recipe a must-try for any home baker. Once you master it, you’ll find endless ways to make it your own.

So go ahead, dust off your square pan, and treat yourself to something timeless. You deserve it.

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