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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Introduction
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a classic dessert that brings together light, flaky puff pastry with a rich, creamy custard filling.
Elegant yet simple, they make a perfect treat for special occasions, family gatherings, or just when you crave a comforting sweet bite.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
For the Custard Filling
4 cups whole milk
1½ cups granulated sugar
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
8 large eggs, separated
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
Bake the puff pastry sheets until golden and crisp, then set aside to cool.
In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and egg yolks, then slowly add the warm milk while stirring constantly.
Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat until it thickens into a smooth custard. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and rum if using. Allow to cool.
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard to create a light and creamy filling.
Place one sheet of puff pastry at the base of a dish, spread the custard cream evenly over it, then top with the second pastry sheet.
Dust generously with powdered sugar and chill until firm before cutting into squares.
How to Make
The secret to making perfect Vanilla Custard Cream Squares lies in balancing the crisp pastry with a smooth, airy custard filling.
First, bake the puff pastry so it holds its flaky texture once layered. The custard is cooked carefully until thickened.
then enriched with vanilla and rum for depth of flavor. By folding in freshly whipped cream, the custard becomes lighter and more delicate.
Assembling the dessert is simply layering pastry and custard, chilling to set, and finishing with a sweet dusting of powdered sugar before slicing into neat squares.
Variations
Add fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or bananas between the custard layers for a fruity twist.
Replace the vanilla with almond or coconut extract to create a unique flavor.
Top with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce instead of powdered sugar for a more decadent dessert.
For a festive version, fold a little citrus zest into the custard for a refreshing brightness.
Tips
Ensure the custard cools properly before folding in the whipped cream to maintain its light texture.
Chill the assembled squares for several hours or overnight to achieve the cleanest cuts.
Use a sharp serrated knife when slicing to avoid crushing the custard filling.
If you prefer extra crispy pastry, bake the sheets between two trays to prevent them from puffing too much.
Conclusion
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delightful dessert that combines flaky pastry with a creamy, cloud-like custard for a truly irresistible treat.
With endless variations and simple preparation, they are a versatile sweet that can impress at any occasion.
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