There’s something undeniably comforting about a dessert that’s creamy, buttery, and just sweet enough. These Vanilla Custard Dessert Squares pair a rich, golden shortbread base with a silky vanilla custard topping, finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for celebrations or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these squares are as satisfying to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients (Makes 12–16 squares)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shortbread Crust | |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Vanilla Custard Filling | |
| Egg yolks | 3 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole milk or heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Topping | |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting |
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy removal.
- Make the Shortbread: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the flour and salt, mixing just until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Custard: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually stir in the milk (or cream) and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly.
- Assemble & Chill: Pour the warm custard over the cooled shortbread crust. Gently tap the pan to release any air bubbles. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to let the custard set.
- Cut & Serve: Lift the chilled slab out of the pan using the parchment edges. Dust generously with powdered sugar. Cut into squares and enjoy as is, or serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
These Vanilla Custard Dessert Squares are a crowd-pleasing treat with a buttery base and creamy topping that melts in your mouth. They’re simple to make, elegant to serve, and guaranteed to become a go-to dessert for any occasion.
