A nostalgic dessert with creamy vanilla custard atop a buttery crust, perfect for any gathering.
Author:ameliasweet7643
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:120 minutes
Yield:12 squares 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water
2 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
4 egg yolks
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for even baking.
Combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until crumbly. Stir in the cold water until the dough forms smoothly.
Press the dough into the bottom of a greased baking dish, creating an even layer. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
Warm the milk gently in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a separate bowl until combined. Slowly add the hot milk while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Pour the egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir continuously until thickened to a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
Spread the homemade custard over the cooled pastry crust, ensuring it reaches every corner.
Whip the heavy cream in a bowl until stiff peaks form. Spread this over the custard layer smoothly.
Chill the squares in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Cut into squares and enjoy this delightful treat.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of fruit jam before the custard or experimenting with flavored extracts in the whipped cream.