Ingredients
For the Base (Cake Layer):
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1/2 cup sugar
-
1/2 cup butter, softened
-
2 eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
Pinch of salt
For the Custard Cream:
-
2 cups milk
-
1/2 cup sugar
-
3 tbsp cornstarch
-
2 egg yolks
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2 tbsp butter
For Topping (Optional):
-
Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Cake Base:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a square baking pan.
-
In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
-
Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating well.
-
Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
-
Pour batter into the pan and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Custard Cream:
-
In a saucepan, heat milk until warm (not boiling).
-
In a bowl, mix sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
-
Slowly pour warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
-
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
-
Remove from heat, add butter and vanilla extract, and stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Squares:
-
Spread the custard cream evenly over the cooled cake base.
-
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.
4. Serve:
-
Cut into squares and garnish with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
Tips:
-
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top.
-
You can also layer crushed biscuits at the base for a no-bake version.
-
Make sure the custard is slightly thick before spreading; too runny custard will make squares soggy.
If you want, I can give you a super-easy 5-ingredient microwave version of Vanilla Custard Cream Squares that sets in under 30 minutes.
Do you want me to share that version?