An elegant dessert with layers of crisp puff pastry, silky vanilla custard, and airy whipped cream.
Introduction
There’s something truly timeless about vanilla custard. Smooth, rich, and delicately flavored, it’s the kind of dessert component that never goes out of style. These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares take that classic comfort and elevate it — creating a dessert that feels like it belongs in a French pâtisserie but comes together easily in your home kitchen.
Each square is built from crisp, golden layers of puff pastry filled with a lusciously smooth stovetop vanilla custard. Once chilled and set, the dessert is topped with a generous layer of lightly sweetened whipped cream and dusted with powdered sugar for a final touch of elegance.
Perfect for brunches, baby showers, dinner parties, or simply a quiet evening with tea, this dessert is as versatile as it is beautiful. Even better? It can be made ahead and tastes even more delicious after a night in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort – Ideal for entertaining or special occasions.
- Creamy, rich custard – Made on the stovetop with simple ingredients.
- Textural contrast – Crisp puff pastry meets smooth custard and fluffy whipped cream.
- Make-ahead friendly – Flavors deepen and improve with chilling.
- No-bake custard – No tempering eggs in the oven, just stovetop magic.
Ingredients
For the Pastry Layers:
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
For the Vanilla Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place each puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. Prick the surface all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Place another sheet of parchment paper on top, then another baking sheet on top to weigh the pastry down.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Cool completely, then trim to fit an 8×8-inch pan if needed.
Make the Vanilla Custard:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add the egg yolks and whisk until fully incorporated. Place over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the hot custard into a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and let cool slightly. Refrigerate until fully chilled (at least 1–2 hours).
Assemble the Dessert:
- Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
- Place one puff pastry sheet in the bottom of the pan.
- Spread the chilled custard evenly over the pastry layer.
- Gently place the second pastry sheet on top of the custard. Press down very lightly to secure.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until medium peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the top layer of pastry.
Finishing Touch:
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the custard to fully set and flavors to meld.
Tips for Success
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for a custard that’s rich and silky.
- Chill thoroughly — this dessert slices best when very cold. Use a serrated knife to cut clean squares.
- Make ahead — this dessert actually improves with time. Prepare the day before for best texture and flavor.
- Optional variations — infuse the milk with a split vanilla bean for deeper flavor, or add a touch of almond extract for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as-is, cold from the refrigerator.
- Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent variation.
Final Thoughts
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect balance of elegance and ease — impressive enough for guests but simple enough to make any day feel special. Whether you serve them at a celebration or just because, they promise to leave a lasting impression, one creamy, flaky bite at a time.
