09/10/2026
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs, for garnish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool.
4. To prepare the custard, whisk the cornstarch and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together in a medium saucepan.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Add the egg yolks and salt, whisking continuously so the yolks blend smoothly into the mixture.
6. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard. This should take approximately 6-9 minutes. Do not allow the custard to boil rapidly.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and the custard is silky smooth.
8. Pour the warm custard over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
9. Cover the surface gently with plastic wrap, pressing it directly against the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely chilled and firmly set.
10. Once the custard has set, prepare the cream topping. Beat the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until medium-stiff peaks form.
11. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled custard layer. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the top and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
12. Refrigerate the squares for another 30 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares, wiping the blade between cuts for clean layers.
13. Serve chilled. The buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla custard, and fluffy whipped cream create a delicate dessert that is creamy, rich, and wonderfully refreshing.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 43 minutes
Kcal: 365 kcal | Servings: 9 servings