Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares

Soft, silky vanilla custard layered over a tender base and chilled to perfection — these custard squares are a classic bakery-style dessert that melt in your mouth with every bite. Perfect for tea time, celebrations, potlucks, or whenever you crave something rich yet light. Unlike heavy cakes, these squares offer a refreshing creamy texture balanced with delicate vanilla aroma, making them loved by kids and adults alike. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.

📝 Ingredients (Makes 12–16 squares)

For the Base:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup sugar

• ½ tsp baking powder

• Pinch of salt

• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp milk

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 2 cups milk (full-fat for creamiest texture)

• ½ cup sugar

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 3 egg yolks

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp butter

For Topping (Optional):

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Whipped cream or fresh berries

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add egg and milk; mix to form soft dough.

5. Press evenly into prepared pan.

6. Bake 12–15 minutes, just until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

2️⃣ Make the Custard

1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar and cornstarch.

2. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (5–7 minutes).

4. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly temper with hot custard mixture.

5. Return to pan and cook 1 minute more.

6. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and butter.

3️⃣ Assemble & Chill

1. Pour hot custard over baked base.

2. Smooth top and cool to room temperature.

3. Refrigerate 3–4 hours until fully set.

4. Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

• Cornstarch + egg yolks create a smooth yet sliceable custard

• Pre-baked base prevents sogginess

• Chilling time allows perfect firm texture for neat squares

• Vanilla extract enhances natural sweetness without overpowering

💡 Tips for Best Results

✔ Stir custard constantly to prevent lumps
✔ Use whole milk for the creamiest texture
✔ Chill overnight for extra clean cuts
✔ Slice with a warm knife for smooth edges
✔ Add lemon zest or nutmeg for flavor twist

🔄 Variations

• Chocolate Custard Squares: Replace ¼ cup milk with cocoa slurry

• Coconut Custard Squares: Use coconut milk + shredded coconut topping

• Strawberry Custard Squares: Add sliced strawberries on top before chilling

• Low-Sugar Version: Use monk fruit or erythritol blend

❓Q & A

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re best when made a day ahead and chilled overnight.

Q: How long do they keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze custard squares?
Freezing isn’t recommended — custard texture may separate.

Q: Why is my custard runny?
It likely wasn’t cooked long enough to fully thicken before chilling.

Q: Can I skip the base and make custard only?
Yes — pour into ramekins and chill for classic vanilla pudding.

🧮 Nutrition (Per Square – approx.)

• Calories: 180

• Carbs: 24g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 8g

🟢 WW (Weight Watchers) Points

6–7 points per square