Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layered Perfection: Every bite offers a delightful mix of creamy custard, fluffy whipped cream, and a crunchy crust.
- No-Fuss Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples and fresh dairy for a timeless flavor.
- Customizable Toppings: Garnish with white chocolate shavings, berries, or a drizzle of caramel.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for entertaining as it needs to chill, making your prep stress-free.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, parties, or a sweet family treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. - Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool. - Make the Custard:
Heat the milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, vanilla, and cornstarch until smooth. - Temper the Egg Mixture:
Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture to prevent curdling. Slowly add the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly. - Cook the Custard:
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool slightly. - Assemble the Dessert:
Pour the custard over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set. - Make the Whipped Cream:
In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. - Top and Serve:
Spread the whipped cream over the custard, smooth the top, and cut into squares for serving. Garnish as desired and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
Variations
- Chocolate Custard Squares: Add 3 tbsp of cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolate twist.
- Fruit Toppings: Add a layer of fresh berries between the custard and whipped cream.
- Coconut Custard: Replace half the milk with coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store the squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze custard squares without whipped cream for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and add whipped cream before serving.
- Reheating: Not recommended, as the custard texture may change.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the custard and crust the day before and refrigerate. Add whipped cream just before serving.
2. Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! Try a shortbread or chocolate cookie crust for variety.
3. Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk is recommended for the best custard texture, but you can substitute low-fat milk with a slight difference in creaminess.
4. How do I prevent my custard from curdling?
Temper the egg mixture by gradually whisking in the hot milk, and avoid overheating the custard.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use almond or oat milk for the custard and a dairy-free whipped topping.
6. Why didn’t my custard set?
This could happen if the custard wasn’t cooked long enough. Stir over medium heat until it thickens.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust chilling time as needed.
8. What toppings work well with this dessert?
White chocolate, fresh berries, caramel, or a dusting of cocoa powder are all great options.
9. How long should I chill the dessert?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for optimal texture.
10. Can I skip the whipped cream layer?
Yes, but the whipped cream adds a light, airy finish that balances the custard’s richness.
Conclusion
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a creamy, elegant dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. With a buttery crust, velvety custard, and fluffy whipped cream, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a family dinner or a special celebration, these squares offer a perfect blend of texture and flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet rewards!
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares combine a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla custard, and fluffy whipped cream for a luscious dessert perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make treat is a versatile, crowd-pleasing favorite!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Custard: Heat milk and cream until simmering. Whisk sugar, egg yolks, vanilla, and cornstarch in a separate bowl. Temper eggs with hot milk mixture, then cook over medium heat until thickened. Let cool.
- Assemble the Dessert: Pour cooled custard over the crust. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
- Make the Whipped Cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Top and Serve: Spread whipped cream over the custard layer, garnish as desired, and cut into squares.
Notes
- Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- For variations, consider adding fruit layers, caramel drizzle, or using coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
