If you love creamy desserts that melt in your mouth, this Vanilla Custard Slice is going to be your next obsession! Known for its silky custard layers and buttery crust, this no-fail recipe will make you feel like a pastry chef right in your kitchen. Perfect for tea time, holidays, or any cozy weekend craving.
๐ง What Is Vanilla Custard Slice?
Vanilla Custard Slice is a classic European dessert made from creamy custard sandwiched between layers of puff pastry or biscuit crust, dusted with powdered sugar. Its texture is smooth, rich, and absolutely addictive.
This dessert is famous under many names:
- Napoleonka in Poland ๐ต๐ฑ
- Mille-feuille in France ๐ซ๐ท
- Custard Slice in the UK ๐ฌ๐ง
No matter what you call it, itโs a dreamy bite of creamy heaven.
๐ฐ Ingredients Youโll Need
For the crust:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional for extra crispiness)
For the creamy custard filling:
- 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
- ยพ cup sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- ยฝ cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 tbsp butter
For the topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
๐ฅ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 โ Prepare the crust
- Preheat your oven to 200ยฐC (390ยฐF).
- Roll out your puff pastry sheets to fit a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake each sheet for 12โ15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool completely before layering.
Step 2 โ Make the creamy vanilla custard
- In a medium saucepan, heat 3ยฝ cups of milk with sugar and vanilla. Bring just to a simmer.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and remaining ยฝ cup milk until smooth.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking (this prevents curdling).
- Pour everything back into the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thick (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and heavy cream until silky.
- Let it cool slightly, covering the surface with plastic wrap to avoid a skin forming.
Step 3 โ Assemble the slice
- Place one baked pastry sheet on the bottom of your baking pan.
- Spread all the custard evenly over it.
- Top with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until firm.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing.
๐ Pro Tips for the Perfect Custard Slice
- Chill well: The longer it chills, the firmer and creamier the layers become.
- Use quality vanilla: It makes a big flavor difference.
- Clean cuts: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for smooth slices.
- No puff pastry? Use a biscuit or graham cracker crust instead.
๐ฎ Variations to Try
- Chocolate Custard Slice: Add 3 tbsp cocoa powder to the custard.
- Caramel Custard Slice: Replace sugar with brown sugar and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Lemon Vanilla Slice: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the custard for a refreshing twist.
- No-bake version: Use plain biscuits as the base and top, skip baking!
๐ด Storage Tips
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Do not freeze, as the custard can lose its texture.
โค๏ธ Why This Recipe Works (AdSense-Optimized Section)
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๐ธ Serving Suggestions
Serve cold with:
- A cup of coffee or tea โ
- Fresh berries ๐
- Whipped cream on the side ๐ฆ
Add a decorative drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel for that professional bakery look!
โจ Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Custard Slice is pure comfort โ light, elegant, and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Each bite delivers layers of flaky pastry and creamy custard that simply melt together in perfection.