Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a timeless dessert that blends a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, silky vanilla custard filling. Each bite offers the perfect contrast between a lightly crunchy base and a smooth, creamy topping that melts in your mouth.
This dessert feels elegant yet comforting—ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or when you’re craving something sweet but refined. Infused with real vanilla and made with simple ingredients, these custard squares are easy to prepare and always impressive.
Why You’ll Love Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
- Smooth, creamy custard with rich vanilla flavor
- Buttery graham cracker crust
- Simple ingredients, bakery-style results
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Easy to customize with different flavors
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Vanilla Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
How to Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined baking dish.
Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the custard.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat until steaming, but do not allow it to boil.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth and pale.
Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Step 4: Thicken the Custard
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until thick and smooth. This usually takes 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the hot custard evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.
Tips for Best Results
- Whisk constantly when heating custard to avoid lumps
- Use real vanilla extract for best flavor
- Chill thoroughly before cutting for clean slices
- Line the pan for easy removal
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Custard: Add melted chocolate to the custard
- Chocolate Crust: Mix cocoa powder into the graham cracker crumbs
- Layered Version: Spread melted chocolate over crust before custard
- Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the custard
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Make-Ahead: Ideal dessert to prepare the day before serving
- Freezing: Not recommended due to custard texture
Serving Suggestions
Serve Vanilla Custard Cream Squares:
- Chilled for a refreshing dessert
- With fresh berries
- With a light dusting of powdered sugar
- As part of a dessert tray
Final Thoughts
Vanilla Custard Cream Squaresare simple, elegant, and deeply satisfying. With their buttery crust and luscious vanilla custard, they strike the perfect balance between comfort food and classic dessert elegance.
If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dessert that never goes out of style, this recipe belongs in your collection.