Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Here’s a deliciously light and creamy recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares — also known as Custard Slice or Napoleon Slice in some regions. It features layers of flaky pastry (or graham crackers) and a rich, silky vanilla custard, topped with powdered sugar or icing. Perfect for desserts, tea time, or holiday trays!

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🍮 Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

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📝 Ingredients (Makes one 9×9-inch pan)

For the Custard Cream:

• 2½ cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 5 large egg yolks

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Layers:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
  OR

• 1 box graham crackers (if you prefer no-bake or lighter option)

For Topping:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
  OR a light vanilla glaze (see variation below)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

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1. Prepare Puff Pastry (if using)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roll out pastry sheets slightly to fit a 9×9-inch pan. Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.

3. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool and cut into squares or fit to pan.

If using graham crackers, skip this step.

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2. Make the Custard Cream

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with a splash of the milk.

3. Slowly whisk the yolk mixture and remaining milk and cream into the pan with the sugar.

4. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles (about 5–8 minutes).

5. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.

6. Let cool slightly (10 minutes), stirring occasionally so it doesn’t set up too fast.

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3. Assemble the Squares

1. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Layer one sheet of baked puff pastry (or graham crackers) on the bottom.

3. Pour in the warm custard and smooth it out evenly.

4. Top with second sheet of pastry (or graham crackers), pressing down gently.

5. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

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4. Top & Serve

• Dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing, or drizzle with vanilla glaze:

Simple Vanilla Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tsp milk

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  → Mix until pourable and drizzle over top before chilling.

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🔪 Tips:

• Use a serrated knife to cut clean squares.

• For clean layers, chill overnight and use a hot knife for slicing.

• You can make the custard 1–2 days ahead and assemble later.