Custard Slices (Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares) 🍰
Custard slices are a classic dessert made with flaky pastry layers filled with smooth vanilla custard and topped with powdered sugar or icing. This popular treat is loved for its creamy texture and delicate pastry crunch. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or whenever you want a comforting homemade dessert.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
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2 sheets puff pastry
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Powdered sugar for dusting
For the Custard Filling
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2 cups milk
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½ cup granulated sugar
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4 egg yolks
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¼ cup cornstarch
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons butter
Optional Icing
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1–2 tablespoons milk
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A few drops vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Bake the Pastry
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Place the puff pastry sheets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
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Prick the pastry with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
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Let the pastry cool completely.
2. Prepare the Custard
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In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm (not boiling).
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In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
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Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
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Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thick.
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Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
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Allow the custard to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Custard Slice
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Place one baked pastry sheet in a square baking dish.
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Spread the warm custard evenly over the pastry.
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Place the second pastry sheet on top.
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Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until the custard sets.
4. Add the Topping
Dust the top with powdered sugar or spread a simple icing mixture over the pastry.
Tips for Perfect Custard Slices
✔ Chill well before cutting – this helps keep the layers neat.
✔ Use a serrated knife to cut through the pastry without crushing it.
✔ Bake pastry between two trays if you want it flatter and easier to layer.
✔ Let custard cool slightly before assembling so it thickens nicely.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Custard Slice
Add melted chocolate to the custard mixture.
Strawberry Custard Slice
Add a thin layer of strawberry jam between the pastry and custard.
Creamy Vanilla Slice
Fold whipped cream into the cooled custard for a lighter filling.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Best served chilled for the creamiest texture.
✨ Custard slices are a timeless dessert that combines buttery pastry with silky vanilla custard. Simple ingredients and a little patience create a bakery-style treat that looks impressive and tastes even better.