If you adore bakery treats that combine fluffy, flaky pastry layers with rich, smooth fillings, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe. It brings together buttery puff pastry with luscious homemade vanilla custard cream, creating an irresistible dessert that feels elegant yet wonderfully approachable. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on your own, these squares are a delightful way to brighten any afternoon or special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its beautiful balance of simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor, texture, and appearance. From the pillowy puff pastry to the velvety vanilla custard and airy whipped cream, every component promises a satisfying bite.
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed: This provides the flaky, buttery base that’s essential for the squares’ delicate crunch.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the custard.
- 1 vanilla bean or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Offers a deep, aromatic vanilla flavor that makes the custard sing.
- 4 large egg yolks: Create richness and help thicken the custard.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard perfectly without overpowering.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the custard its luscious body.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and shine to the custard.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to add lightness and airiness to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream topping.
How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures a clean bake and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cut and Prick the Pastry
Roll out each sheet of puff pastry gently to smooth and thin them slightly. Then cut each sheet into 9 even squares for a total of 18. Prick each square with a fork multiple times; this ingenious little trick prevents them from puffing up too much, allowing for more manageable layers.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
Bake the squares in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The puff pastry should be crisp and flaky but not overly tough. Once out of the oven, let them cool completely to prepare for assembly.
Step 4: Make the Vanilla Custard
For the custard, warm the whole milk with the vanilla bean in a saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. If you’re using vanilla extract, hold off on adding it until after the milk is heated. This careful warming extracts the best vanilla flavor.
Step 5: Combine Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and pale, which means it’s ready to become the base of a delicious custard.
Step 6: Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour the hot vanilla milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking non-stop. This gradual process tempers the eggs, preventing curdling and ensuring your custard stays silky smooth.
Step 7: Cook Until Thickened
Return the entire mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. Patience is key here: after 5-7 minutes, the custard will thicken to a pudding-like consistency, signaling that you’re almost at the finish line.
Step 8: Finish the Custard
Remove the custard from heat, stir in the butter until melted and shiny. Now is the perfect time to add vanilla extract if you skipped the vanilla bean earlier. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, then cool to room temperature before refrigerating until chilled.
Step 9: Whip the Cream
Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. This fluffy cream will lighten the custard and make every bite heavenly.
Step 10: Fold and Fill
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled custard until smooth and creamy. Then slice each puff pastry square horizontally into two layers. Spoon a generous amount of the vanilla custard cream onto the bottom half and sandwich with the top layer for that perfect cream-to-crust ratio.
Step 11: Final Touches
Optionally, dust the squares with powdered sugar for a charming presentation that adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Voilà —your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe is complete!
How to Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar brings a lovely sweetness and makes the squares look bakery-perfect. Alternatively, fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add bursts of color and flavor to elevate your serving game.
Side Dishes
Pair these custard squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of robust coffee or tea to balance the richness and complement the dessert’s delicate vanilla notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, consider layering the custard squares on a tiered cake stand. You can also serve them alongside a fruit compote or sprinkle edible flowers for a whimsical touch that is sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover custard squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the custard fresh and the puff pastry crisp—though it’s best enjoyed as soon as possible.
Freezing
Freezing assembled custard squares isn’t recommended as the custard texture may suffer, and the puff pastry could become soggy upon thawing. Instead, consider freezing the baked puff pastry layers separately and assembling just before serving.
Reheating
If you’d like to warm the puff pastry before assembling, a quick 3-5 minutes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven will restore its flaky crispness beautifully. Avoid reheating after assembly to maintain the cream’s delicate texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought vanilla pudding instead of making the custard?
While store-bought pudding can save time, it won’t deliver the fresh, rich flavor and smooth texture of homemade vanilla custard, which is central to this recipe’s charm.
Is it necessary to prick the puff pastry before baking?
Yes! Pricking the pastry prevents it from puffing up into large bubbles and helps it bake evenly flat, making it easier to slice and fill.
Can I prepare the custard cream ahead of time?
Absolutely. The custard cream should be made ahead and chilled at least a few hours to firm up before folding in the whipped cream and assembling.
What if I don’t have a vanilla bean, can I just use extract?
Yes, vanilla extract works perfectly fine. Just add it after heating the milk, and then again after cooking the custard to ensure a full vanilla flavor.
How long can I keep the custard cream once made?
Keep it refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for the best freshness and safety. Always keep it covered to prevent odors from other foods.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the combination of flaky, buttery puff pastry and silky vanilla custard cream, and this Vanilla Custard Cream Squares with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe captures that magic effortlessly. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just craving a sweet pick-me-up, these squares are guaranteed to brighten your day. Give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them sooner!
