Indulge in the Delight of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the Egg Yolk:
   • Add the egg yolk to the mixture and mix until the dough starts to come together. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
4. Press the Dough:
   • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to smooth it out.
5. Bake the Crust:
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the custard filling.

2. Prepare the Vanilla Custard Filling:

6. Heat the Milk:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam but not boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until smooth and pale. Stir in the cornstarch until well combined.
8. Temper the Egg Mixture:
   • Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Gradually add the rest of the milk, continuing to whisk.
9. Cook the Custard:
   • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil.
10. Add Vanilla and Butter:
    • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is fully melted and the custard is smooth.
11. Cool Slightly:
    • Let the custard cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the baked crust.

3. Assemble and Chill:

12. Add the Custard:
    • Pour the vanilla custard filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
13. Chill the Squares:
    • Refrigerate the squares for at least 4 hours or until the custard is fully set. For best results, chill overnight.

4. Serve:

14. Cut and Garnish:
    • Once set, lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Garnish with fresh berries for an added touch of elegance.
15. Enjoy:
    • Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, decadent flavors of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares.

Tips for Success:

• Avoid Overbaking: Make sure not to overbake the crust to prevent it from becoming too hard. It should be lightly golden.
• Smooth Custard: For a smooth custard, be sure to cook it gently and stir constantly to avoid lumps.
• Chilling Time: Allow adequate chilling time for the custard to set properly. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Variations:

• Fruit Variation: Top the custard with a layer of fresh fruit or fruit compote before chilling for added flavor and color.
• Chocolate Custard: Substitute some of the milk with cream and add melted chocolate to the custard for a rich chocolate version.

Conclusion

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a luxurious dessert that combines a buttery crust with a rich, creamy vanilla custard. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply treating yourself, these squares are sure to impress with their smooth texture and elegant flavor. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert!