Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Here’s a luscious Vanilla Custard Cream Squares recipe with layers of buttery pastry and silky custard—reminiscent of a classic mille-feuille but easier to make!

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins (+ chilling) | Total Time: 4+ hours

Servings: 9 squares

Ingredients:

For the Layers:

2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Custard Cream:

2 cups whole milk

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup cornstarch

4 large egg yolks

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1½ tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)

Pinch of salt

For the Glaze (Optional):

½ cup powdered sugar

1 tbsp milk or lemon juice

½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Bake the Pastry Layers:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out puff pastry sheets to 9×9-inch squares (trim if needed). Prick all over with a fork.

Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water).

Bake for 15-18 mins until golden and puffed. Press flat with another pan while warm to deflate. Cool completely.

Make the Custard:

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl until pale.

Heat milk in a saucepan until steaming (do not boil). Slowly pour ½ cup into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

Return everything to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick (2-3 mins).

Off heat, stir in butter, vanilla, and salt. Cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface) and cool to room temp.

Assemble:

Place one pastry layer on a tray. Spread all the custard evenly over it. Top with the second pastry layer.

Glaze (Optional):

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the top layer.

Chill & Serve:

Refrigerate for 3+ hours (or overnight) to set. Slice into squares with a sharp knife.

Pinterest Keywords:

Easy Vanilla Custard Squares

Classic Mille-Feuille Dessert

Creamy Puff Pastry Layers

No-Bake Custard Slice

French Vanilla Slice

Pro Tips:

For neat slices, chill overnight and wipe the knife between cuts.

Add fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder for flair!

Let me know if you’d like a quick version (using instant pudding) or dietary swaps (vegan, gluten-free). 

Enjoy!