Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Here’s the full recipe for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, including directions for making the crust, custard filling, and assembling the dessert:

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the custard filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 5 large egg yolks
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp cornstarch

Optional for topping:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh berries or whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool completely while you prepare the custard.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, cream, and ½ cup of the sugar. Heat over medium heat until just steaming but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining ¼ cup sugar and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
3. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5–8 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Pour the custard over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Chill and Set

1. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the custard to prevent a skin from forming).
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once set, cut into squares.
2. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries or whipped cream before serving.

Would you like a variation with a puff pastry top or a whipped cream layer added?