Vanilla Custard Cream Squares – Easy & Irresistible Dessert

If you love soft, creamy desserts that feel bakery-style but are easy to make at home, these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares will steal your heart. Each bite melts in your mouth with smooth vanilla custard and tender layers that feel comforting and indulgent at the same time.

This recipe comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for both beginners and busy days. Whether you’re planning a family dessert, a weekend treat, or something sweet for guests, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares always look impressive with very little effort.

They’re light, creamy, and just sweet enough—exactly the kind of dessert you’ll want to save, share, and make again.

More Recipes

• Blueberry Crumb Bars
• Boston Cream Pie Cookies

INGREDIENTS

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares:

For the Custard Cream

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (24 g)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (14 g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)

For the Layers

• 1 package plain tea biscuits or vanilla biscuits (7 oz / 200 g)
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or whipping cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder
• Crushed biscuits for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these simple steps to make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares perfectly every time:

1. Heat the milk
   Pour the milk into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Mix the custard base
   In a bowl, whisk the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and pale. Slowly pour in a little warm milk while whisking to temper the eggs.
3. Cook the custard
   Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and becomes smooth and creamy. This takes about 5–7 minutes.
4. Finish the custard
   Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully melted and glossy.
5. Optional cream step
   If using heavy cream, gently fold it into the warm custard for an extra-light, creamy texture.
6. Assemble the layers
   Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Arrange a layer of biscuits at the bottom, then spread an even layer of vanilla custard over them.
7. Repeat and chill
   Add another layer of biscuits, followed by the remaining custard. Smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully set.
8. Slice into squares
   Once chilled, lift the dessert out of the dish and cut into neat squares. Dust with powdered sugar or add your favorite topping before serving.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

Use these tips to make your Vanilla Custard Cream Squares even better:

Helpful Tips

• Whisk constantly while cooking the custard to keep it smooth and lump-free.
• Cook the custard just until thick; overcooking can make it grainy.
• Chill the dessert long enough so the layers set cleanly before slicing.

Easy Variations

• Swap vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor.
• Add a thin layer of fruit jam between the biscuits and custard for a fruity twist.
• Mix in a little lemon zest for a light, refreshing note.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Store the squares covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make this dessert the night before serving for the best texture and flavor.

SERVING IDEAS

Here are delicious ways to serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares for any occasion:

• Serve chilled for the creamiest texture and clean slices.
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for a simple, elegant finish.
• Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Perfect For

• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
• Family desserts and casual gatherings
• Holiday trays and special occasions
• Light make-ahead desserts for entertaining

FAQs

Recipe

Yield: 9 squares

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Print

Soft biscuit layers filled with smooth, creamy vanilla custard. These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are easy to make, beautifully layered, and perfect for a make-ahead dessert.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

Custard Cream

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (24 g)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (14 g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)

Layers

• 7 oz (200 g) plain tea biscuits or vanilla biscuits
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or whipping cream (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Cocoa powder or cinnamon
• Crushed biscuits

Instructions

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Stir gently.
   
2. Whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a bowl until smooth.
   
3. Slowly pour some warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking.
   
4. Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and creamy, about 5–7 minutes.
   
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
   
6. Fold in heavy cream if using for extra creaminess.
   
7. Line a square pan with parchment paper. Arrange a layer of biscuits on the bottom.
   
8. Spread half of the custard evenly over the biscuits.
   
9. Add another biscuit layer and top with remaining custard.
   
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully set.
    
11. Slice into squares and add toppings before serving.

Notes

Chill overnight for the cleanest slices.

Whisk constantly to prevent lumps in the custard.

Use vanilla bean paste for deeper vanilla flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 9 Serving Size: 1 square
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260Total Fat: 11gCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 6g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are one of those desserts that feel simple yet special. The creamy vanilla custard, soft biscuit layers, and delicate sweetness make every bite comforting and irresistible. It’s the kind of recipe that works just as beautifully for everyday treats as it does for sharing with family and friends.

If you try these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, don’t forget to save the recipe on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime a creamy dessert craving hits. I’d love to hear how they turned out for you—leave a comment, share your twist, or pass the recipe along to someone who loves custard desserts as much as you do.

Happy baking and sweet moments ahead 🤍✨