These Sweet Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a smooth, creamy dessert layered over a buttery graham cracker crust and finished with a light whipped cream topping. Each bite delivers classic vanilla flavor with a soft, sliceable texture that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it perfect for gatherings or a make-ahead treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe balances rich custard with a crisp crust and airy whipped cream for a dessert that feels elegant but is simple to prepare. It uses basic pantry ingredients, comes together in clear steps, and can be made ahead of time, which makes it ideal for entertaining or relaxed family desserts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the custard
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
5 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons cornstarch
For the whipped cream
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional garnish
½ cup crushed graham crackers or cookies
¼ cup white chocolate shavings
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra paper over the sides to make removal easier.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until just beginning to simmer. Do not let it boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This step gently warms the eggs and prevents curdling. Gradually whisk in the remaining milk mixture.
Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Pour the warm custard over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set custard.
Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or white chocolate shavings if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the custard.
For extra texture, mix finely chopped nuts into the crust.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and slightly less sugar in the custard.
For a layered finish, add a thin chocolate ganache between the custard and whipped cream.
Storage/Reheating
Store the custard squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled until serving for the best texture. This dessert is not suitable for reheating, as heat will soften the custard and whipped cream layers.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, these squares are perfect for making a day in advance and storing in the refrigerator.
How do I know when the custard is thick enough?
The custard is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you run your finger through it.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream gives a fresher taste and better texture.
Can I freeze vanilla custard cream squares?
Freezing is not recommended, as the custard can become watery once thawed.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Digestive biscuits or plain tea biscuits work well as substitutes.
Why did my custard turn lumpy?
This usually happens if the heat is too high or the mixture is not stirred constantly.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar, but the custard texture may be affected.
How do I get clean slices?
Chill the dessert well and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
Can I add fruit on top?
Fresh berries can be added just before serving for extra freshness.
Is this dessert served best cold?
Yes, serving it chilled gives the custard the best flavor and structure.
Conclusion
Sweet Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a timeless dessert that combines smooth custard, buttery crust, and fluffy whipped cream in every slice. With simple ingredients and a make-ahead friendly process, this recipe is an excellent choice for both special occasions and everyday treats.
Sweet Vanilla Custard Cream Squares feature a buttery graham cracker crust, silky vanilla custard, and fluffy whipped cream topping. This make-ahead dessert is elegant, smooth, and perfect for entertaining or family treats.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 45 minutes
Yield:12 squares
Category:Dessert
Method:Chilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the custard:
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
5 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons cornstarch
For the whipped cream:
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional garnish:
½ cup crushed graham crackers or cookies
¼ cup white chocolate shavings
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.
Heat milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering.
In a bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, vanilla, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly whisk in ½ cup hot milk, then combine with remaining milk in saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes.
Pour custard over crust, spread evenly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over custard.
Top with crushed graham crackers or white chocolate if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Add citrus zest for a fruity variation.
Mix chopped nuts into crust for added crunch.
Use reduced-fat milk and less sugar for a lighter version.
Layer with chocolate ganache for a richer dessert.
