Vanilla Custard Bars are a delightful treat with a smooth, creamy custard filling on a buttery shortbread crust. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe you can try:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until combined.
- Add the cold cubed butter and vanilla extract, and pulse until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the surface.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the custard filling.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Place over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful to not let it boil.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the cubed butter until melted and smooth.
- Pour the custard filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Bars:
- Bake the assembled custard bars for 20–25 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. It should be firm but still a bit wobbly in the center.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
4. Serve:
- Once set, carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or bars.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can flavor the custard with a bit of lemon zest or a few drops of almond extract if you want to add a twist to the vanilla flavor.
- Make sure the custard doesn’t boil, as this could cause it to curdle. It should thicken gently over medium heat.
These vanilla custard bars are creamy, sweet, and buttery—perfect for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat!