Gluten-Free Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Gluten-Free Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

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Here’s a delicious Gluten-Free Vanilla Custard Cream Squares recipe — featuring a tender crust, silky vanilla custard, and a whipped cream topping. Classic bakery-style goodness, made entirely gluten-free!

🌾 Gluten-Free Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

🍰 Ingredients

For the gluten-free crust:

  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)

  • ¼ cup cornstarch

  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

  • 1–2 tbsp cold water (as needed)

For the vanilla custard:

  • 2½ cups whole milk

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup sugar

  • 3 tbsp cornstarch

  • 4 egg yolks

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

For the whipped topping:

  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled

  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the gluten-free crust:

  • Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

  • In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, and powdered sugar.

  • Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.

  • Add 1–2 tbsp cold water just until the dough comes together.

  • Press into a greased 8×8-inch (20x20cm) pan. Prick with a fork.

  • Bake for 18–20 mins until lightly golden. Cool completely.

2. Prepare the vanilla custard:

  • In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with ¼ cup sugar and cornstarch until smooth.

  • In a saucepan, heat milk, cream, remaining ¼ cup sugar, and a pinch of salt over medium heat until just starting to simmer.

  • Slowly pour hot milk into yolk mixture, whisking constantly (temper).

  • Return to saucepan and cook over medium-low, whisking, until thick (5–7 mins).

  • Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla.

  • Pour over cooled crust and smooth the top.

  • Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set.

3. Whip the cream topping:

  • Beat cold heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

  • Spread evenly over the chilled custard.

4. Slice and serve:

  • Cut into squares using a hot knife for clean edges.

  • Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries.

✅ Tips

  • Make ahead: Best chilled overnight.

  • Egg-free option: Use a thick eggless custard (cornstarch + milk + sugar + vanilla + vegan butter).

  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk/cream and dairy-free butter.

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