Here’s a full recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, a classic dessert featuring a soft, buttery base, rich vanilla custard, and a light whipped topping. Perfect for potlucks or a sweet treat after dinner.
🍮 Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Ingredients
For the base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the custard layer:
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to butter mixture. Mix until combined.
- Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
2. Make the custard
- In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until just simmering.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly (tempering eggs).
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Pour custard over baked base and smooth the top.
- Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until set.
3. Prepare the topping
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over chilled custard layer.
4. Serve
- Cut into squares or rectangles.
- Optional garnish: shaved chocolate, fresh berries, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
⭐ Tips
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the custard.
- Use a serrated knife to cut squares neatly without dragging the custard.
- Make a day ahead—flavors meld beautifully and it’s easier to slice.
I can also give you a no-bake version that’s quicker but just as creamy if you want a faster dessert option.
Do you want the no-bake version too?
