Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares

Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares are a timeless dessert that combines a light, fluffy cake base with a rich, silky vanilla custard topping. Finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, these elegant dessert bars are soft, comforting, and irresistibly creamy. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday desserts, afternoon tea, or even as a make-ahead treat for special occasions.

What makes this dessert truly special is its melt-in-your-mouth texture. The custard layer is thick, smooth, and delicately sweet, while the cake base provides just enough structure to hold everything together. It’s a classic European-style dessert that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

Whether you’re looking for easy homemade desserts, budget-friendly baking recipes, or high-yield party desserts, these vanilla custard squares check all the boxes.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

4 large eggs (room temperature)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Vanilla Custard Cream

4 cups whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Topping

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale, thick, and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix gently.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture carefully to maintain airiness.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
In a bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Cook until thick and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

Pour the hot custard over the cooled cake base.
Smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
Allow the cake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Slice into neat squares and serve chilled.

Tips for Perfect Custard Squares

Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.
Constant stirring prevents lumps in the custard.
Chilling overnight gives the cleanest slices.
A sharp knife wiped clean between cuts keeps edges neat.

Variations

Chocolate Custard Squares: Add cocoa powder to the custard.
Lemon Cream Squares: Add lemon zest and juice to the custard.
Coconut Vanilla Cake: Replace part of the milk with coconut milk.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch.

Serving Suggestions

These custard squares pair beautifully with:

Fresh berries
Coffee or espresso
Herbal or green tea
Vanilla ice cream

Perfect for brunch desserts, holiday dessert trays, or after-dinner sweets.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Do not freeze (custard texture may change)
Best served cold

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my custard not thickening?

This usually happens if the mixture isn’t cooked long enough or the heat is too low. Cornstarch requires heat to activate.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for make-ahead desserts. Prepare it a day in advance for best texture.

Can I use vanilla pudding mix instead?

You can, but homemade custard offers better flavor, texture, and quality.

What pan size works best?

A 9×13-inch pan creates ideal thickness for both layers.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s soft, lightly sweet, and very popular with children.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares are proof that simple ingredients can create a truly luxurious dessert. With their smooth texture, classic flavor, and beautiful presentation, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or content creation, this recipe delivers elegance, comfort, and timeless appeal.