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Here’s a detailed, unique article for Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, including step-by-step instructions to make them perfectly at home:

Vanilla Custard Cream Squares: A Decadent Dessert Made Simple

If you love creamy, smooth desserts with a hint of vanilla, Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are the perfect treat. These luscious squares combine a tender, buttery base with a rich, velvety custard filling and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar on top. They are ideal for afternoon tea, dessert tables, or whenever you crave a sweet comfort treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to make them at home.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base:

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

2 1/2 cups (600 ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter

For Topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the dry ingredients: Mix in the flour and salt gradually, combining until a crumbly dough forms.
Press into pan: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Bake the base: Place in the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.