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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Julia
This recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, creamy vanilla custard filling and a fluffy whipped cream topping.
The custard is made by gently cooking milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until thickened, then flavored with vanilla and butter for extra richness.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1 square
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 8×8 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk (for whipping cream)
  • Fine mesh sieve (optional, for smooth custard)

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the custard filling:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the whipped cream topping:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper so the dessert can be removed easily later.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir everything together until the texture looks like damp sand and holds together when pressed.
  • Transfer this mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to form the base crust. Bake it for about 8–10 minutes, then take it out and allow it to cool completely.
  • While the crust cools, start the custard. In a saucepan, mix together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt first so there are no lumps later.
  • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and keep stirring without stopping. After a few minutes, the mixture will start to thicken into a creamy custard.
  • In a separate small bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. To avoid scrambling them, slowly add a little of the hot mixture into the yolks while whisking. Then pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
  • Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until thick and silky. Remove from heat and mix in the butter and vanilla extract until the custard becomes smooth and glossy.
  • Pour the warm custard over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm.
  • For the topping, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread it gently over the chilled custard layer, then cut into neat squares and serve.

Notes

Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Calories: 350 calories | Carbohydrates: 38 grams | Sugars: 24 grams | Fat: 20 grams | Protein: 5 grams | Sodium: 0.12 grams | Fiber: 1 grams
Keyword Vanilla Custard Cream Squares