Stir in vanilla and rum (if using)
Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface — prevents a skin from forming
Chill 1–2 hours until completely cool
Don’t skip tempering — it keeps the custard smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream and 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form
Gently fold into the cooled custard — one-third at a time — until light and fluffy
Fold, don’t stir — keeps the filling airy.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Place one cooled pastry sheet on a serving tray or board
Spread custard evenly over the top
Carefully place the second pastry sheet on top
Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours — this firms up the custard and makes slicing clean
Step 5: Slice & Serve
Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar
Use a sharp knife (dipped in hot water and wiped dry) to cut into even squares
Serve chilled — each bite is crisp, creamy, and unforgettable
Pro Tip: Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.
Fun Variations to Try
Chocolate Dream
Melt ½ cup dark chocolate into the warm custard before chilling
Lemon Dream
Add 2 tbsp lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon to the custard
Berry Bliss
Layer fresh strawberries or raspberries between the custard and top pastry
Almond Delight
Add ½ tsp almond extract to the custard and top with toasted sliced almonds
Coffee Kick
Add 1 tbsp instant espresso to the milk for a mocha twist
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.
How long do they last?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use store-bought custard?
In a pinch, yes — but homemade is silkier and more flavorful.
What pairs well with these squares?
A cup of coffee or tea
Fresh berries
A scoop of vanilla ice cream (yes, really)
Final Thoughts: Sometimes the Best Dessert Isn’t Complicated — It’s Just Perfectly Layered
We think great desserts need time, skill, and a long ingredient list.
But the truth is:
The most satisfying ones are often the simplest.
These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares prove that elegance doesn’t have to be hard.
So next time you want to impress…
Don’t reach for the mixer.
Don’t stress over the details.
Just layer puff pastry and custard.
Chill.
Slice.
Dust.
Because sometimes, the difference between “just dessert” and “I need the recipe”…
Isn’t in the flavor.
It’s in the layers.
And once you make this?
You’ll understand why it’s a timeless delight.
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