Introduction
Indulge in the heavenly goodness of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor and a comforting touch to any occasion. With a buttery crust that crumbles beautifully under a rich and creamy custard, these squares are topped with a luscious whipped cream that makes each bite unforgettable. Perfect for family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or a special dessert to end your day, these sweet squares are sure to impress your loved ones!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Additional vanilla extract (to taste)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 16 squares
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warm-up step ensures an even bake, giving your crust that perfect golden touch.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix these together until a soft dough starts to form.
- Press the dough firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a solid foundation.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- While the crust is cooling, take a saucepan and heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s steaming, but be careful not to let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until they are well blended.
- Stir the egg yolks into the sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly until everything is well combined.
- Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture, blending until smooth, then transfer everything back to the saucepan.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble gently.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, letting the glorious aroma fill your kitchen.
- Pour the custard over the cooled crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and ensure every bite will be rich in flavor.
- Allow the custard to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it until fully set, about 2-3 hours.
- Once set, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and additional vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a delightful topping.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the chilled custard, making it look as good as it tastes.
- Slice into beautiful squares and serve chilled, ready to be savored!
Notes or Tips
- For a more intense vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
- Make sure your custard has cooled completely before adding the whipped cream to keep it from melting.
- These squares can be prepared a day in advance, making them ideal for gatherings.
Cooking Techniques
Making these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares is a wonderful exercise in patience and care. The key is to ensure that each component is handled thoughtfully, particularly when cooking the custard. Stirring constantly prevents scorching and leads to a perfectly silky texture. Remember, cooling is just as important — giving the custard time to set guarantees a beautiful slice every time!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
- What if I don’t have whipped cream? You can serve the squares without whipped cream or replace it with a dollop of yogurt for a lighter option.
Conclusion
These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of rich flavors and delightful textures. With each bite, you’ll experience a melty custard nestled in a tender crust, topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream. They are perfect for sharing or savoring alone – a true treat that makes any day feel a little more special. Enjoy your culinary creation and the smiles it brings!