Vanilla Custard Slice, also known as vanilla slice or custard square, is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for decades. This sweet treat consists of two layers of flaky pastry filled with creamy vanilla custard and topped with a layer of smooth icing. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, from afternoon tea to dessert after dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
2 sheets of puff pastry
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon of water
For the Custard:
1 cup of milk
1 cup of heavy cream
1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
4 egg yolks
1/2 cup of granulated sugar
1/4 cup of cornstarch
For the Icing:
1 1/2 cups of confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lay one sheet of puff pastry on the tray. Brush the beaten egg over the pastry.
Place the other sheet of puff pastry on top of the egg-brushed pastry and press down lightly. Brush the top with more egg wash.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy. Remove from the oven and let it cool on the tray.
While the pastry is baking, prepare the custard. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat. Split the vanilla bean (if using) and scrape the seeds into the milk mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously.
Pour the custard mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the custard thickens and boils.
Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and continue whisking for a minute to prevent any lumps from forming.
Pour the custard onto the cooled pastry and smooth it out evenly. Refrigerate for at least an hour until the custard has set.
To make the icing, mix the confectioners’ sugar, water, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Once the custard has set, remove the pastry from the refrigerator and spread the icing over the top of the custard.
Refrigerate again for at least an hour to let the icing set.
Cut the vanilla custard slice into desired serving sizes and serve chilled.
This recipe for Vanilla Custard Slice is a perfect dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its crispy puff pastry, creamy vanilla custard, and sweet icing, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more. Give this recipe a try and enjoy this classic dessert that has stood the test of time.
