Vanilla Custard Bars are a rich and creamy dessert with a smooth custard filling and a tender crust. These bars are perfect for anyone who loves custard-based treats, and they’re easy to make. Here’s a simple recipe for Vanilla Custard Bars:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- A pinch of salt
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the vanilla extract and pulse a couple more times.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the custard.
2. Prepare the Custard Filling:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam (but don’t let it come to a boil).
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Once fully combined, pour the custard mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to keep stirring to prevent the custard from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the custard filling over the partially baked crust in the baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should not jiggle when you move the dish.
4. Cool and Slice:
- Allow the custard bars to cool to room temperature. For best results, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours or overnight to let them set fully.
- Once cooled and set, cut into squares or bars.
5. Optional Topping:
- Before serving, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and decoration.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: You can infuse the milk with flavors like cinnamon or lemon zest to add an extra twist.
- Crust Variations: For a more buttery or crumbly crust, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar or use graham cracker crumbs instead of flour for a different texture.
- Toppings: Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries are a great way to top these custard bars for some added freshness.
These Vanilla Custard Bars are rich, creamy, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them for a party or enjoying them with a cup of tea. Would you like more variations on this recipe or ideas for sides or drinks to pair with them?