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Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

A buttery graham cracker crust topped with silky, vanilla-scented custard, creating a comforting and nostalgic dessert perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup melted butter Use unsalted butter for the best flavor.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the custard
  • 2 cups whole milk Full-fat milk recommended.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Full-fat for the creamiest texture.
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 5 large egg yolks Yolks create the richest custard.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. Refrigerate.
Cooking
  1. In a medium saucepan, heat whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until steaming.
  2. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Gradually pour hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.
Assembling
  1. Pour custard over chilled crust and spread evenly.
Chilling
  1. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
Serving
  1. Lift from the pan and cut into squares. Serve chilled.

Notes

Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual squares for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.