Vanilla Custard Bars Recipe
Vanilla custard bars are a delightful treat with a creamy, rich custard filling set in a buttery, golden crust. These bars are perfect for a sweet snack, dessert, or a special occasion. Here’s a simple recipe that combines ease with indulgence, making a batch of these delicious custard bars in no time.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk until the dough starts to come together.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the custard filling.
3. Make the Custard Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt until well combined. Gradually whisk in the warm milk mixture until the custard is smooth and fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the custard filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the custard bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles.
For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This helps the custard to set further and enhances the flavor.
6. Optional Toppings: Before serving, you might sprinkle the bars with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add a delightful touch.
Enjoy your vanilla custard bars with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply on their own as a delectable treat. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
