Are you ready to treat yourself to something truly special? Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delightful dessert that brings joy with every bite. They feature a buttery shortbread base topped with smooth, rich custard cream. In this post, I’ll guide you through making this creamy dessert, share tips for perfecting it, and suggest fun variations to try. Let’s dive into creating a dessert your friends and family will love!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Suggested Tools and Equipment
To prepare these delightful squares, gather these tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Saucepan
– 8×8 inch baking pan
– Plastic wrap
– Electric mixer (for whipping cream)
Having the right tools makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Nutritional Information
Each square of Vanilla Custard Cream has approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Sugar: 8g
This dessert is rich, so enjoy it in moderation. The balance of cream and sweetness makes it a treat worth savoring.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Shortbread Base
To start, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, I combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. I mix until the dough feels crumbly but holds together. Next, I press the dough into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan. Make sure it is even for the best results.
Baking the Base
I place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. I watch for the edges to turn lightly golden. Once done, I remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This base will hold our creamy filling, so it needs to be sturdy.
Making and Thickening the Custard Cream
For the custard, I use a saucepan over medium heat. I combine whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. I stir this mixture until it’s steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually, I whisk a little of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs. Then, I slowly pour this back into the saucepan while whisking constantly.
Combining Layers and Chilling
I keep cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring all the time. It takes about 5-7 minutes to thicken. I avoid boiling it. Once thickened, I remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste or extract. After a few minutes, I pour the custard over the cooled shortbread base. I smooth the top with a spatula. I cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This waiting time is key for setting. After chilling, I can enjoy my Vanilla Custard Cream Squares! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, a few mistakes can ruin your treat. First, do not rush the baking of the shortbread base. If it is undercooked, it will be too soft. Let it cool completely before adding the custard cream. Second, avoid boiling the milk. Boiling can curdle your custard, making it grainy. Always heat it until steaming. Lastly, whisk the mixture constantly when you add the yolks to avoid scrambling them.
How to Achieve the Perfect Custard Texture
To get a smooth and creamy custard, pay close attention while cooking. Use medium heat and stir often. Once you see the mixture thicken, take it off the heat. The custard should coat the back of a spoon. If you want an even silkier texture, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve. This step removes any tiny bits that could spoil the smooth finish.
Adjusting Sweetness and Flavor
You can easily change the sweetness and flavor of your custard. If you prefer it sweeter, add more sugar to taste. Start with a tablespoon and adjust as you like. For flavor, vanilla bean paste gives a rich taste, but you can also use almond extract or citrus zest for a fresh twist. Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination. You can follow the Full Recipe to guide you in these tweaks.
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can change the flavor to make these squares even more fun. Try adding chocolate or lemon. For chocolate, mix in cocoa powder with the custard. This gives a rich, deep taste. For lemon, add lemon zest and juice to the custard cream. This brightens the dessert and adds a refreshing twist. Both options are simple, and they taste amazing.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands make good flour mixes. Just make sure the mix works for baking. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you will still enjoy creamy goodness. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters when serving these squares. A dollop of whipped cream on top makes them look special. You can also add fresh berries for color and taste. Strawberries or raspberries work great. Drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel over the squares for extra flavor. These small touches make your dessert shine and impress your guests.
For the Full Recipe, check the earlier section!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the squares in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. If you use fresh berries as a garnish, add them just before serving.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze these squares if you want to store them longer. Cut them into pieces before freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to two months. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Best Practices for Serving after Storage
When ready to serve, take the squares out of the fridge. If frozen, let them thaw completely. Whip the heavy cream and dollop it on top. You can add fresh berries then. This makes the dessert look fresh and appealing. Enjoy your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares! For the full recipe, check back at the start.
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whole milk or a mix of milk and butter. This mix gives creaminess but less fat. For a lighter option, try evaporated milk. Each choice changes the texture slightly.
How long does it take for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares to set?
It usually takes about four hours in the fridge. For the best results, let them chill overnight. This helps the custard become firm and tasty.
Can I use store-bought custard instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought custard. It saves time, but homemade tastes richer. If you choose store-bought, pick a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
How to tell when the custard is properly thickened?
The custard thickens when it coats the back of a spoon. You should see a clear line when you run your finger through it. Avoid boiling, as it can curdle.
Can I make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares a day in advance?
Absolutely! Making them a day early is a great idea. The flavors deepen, and the squares set nicely. Just cover them well in the fridge to keep them fresh. Enjoy the Full Recipe for more details!
In this blog post, we covered how to make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares. You learned about the key ingredients, tools, and nutrition. I shared step-by-step instructions for the shortbread base and custard. Tips highlighted common errors and how to perfect the custard texture. We explored fun variations, storage tips, and answered your FAQs.
Making this dessert can be fun and rewarding. With practice, you can impress anyone. Enjoy creating your own delicious squares!
