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Luxurious Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Amber
These **Vanilla Custard Cream Squares** feature a buttery, crisp shortbread base topped with a silky, rich vanilla bean custard. A sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine European, French
Servings 16 squares
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • 8x8 Baking Pan
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Vanilla Custard Filling

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Make the Base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream butter and sugar. Add flour and salt. Press dough into a parchment-lined 8x8 pan.
  • Bake Base: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
  • Prep Custard: Whisk yolks, sugar, and flour in a bowl. Heat milk in a saucepan until simmering.
  • Temper & Cook: Slowly pour hot milk into yolks while whisking (temper). Return mix to pot. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until thick (5-8 mins).
  • Add Vanilla: Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt.
  • Assemble & Chill: Pour custard over cooled base. Smooth top. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface. Chill 4 hours.
  • Serve: Lift out of pan, slice into squares, and dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a warm damp cloth between each slice.
Keyword Custard Slice, Shortbread Bars, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, Vanilla Dessert