Vanilla Custard Bars A Heavenly Treat for Every Occasion

Vanilla Custard Bars: A Heavenly Treat for Every Occasion

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Vanilla Custard Bars are the ultimate indulgence, combining a buttery crust, creamy custard filling, and a sweet glaze to create a dessert that melts in your mouth. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple treat at home, this recipe is both elegant and easy to make. Each bite offers a luscious balance of flavor and texture, sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Custard Filling:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  5. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Custard Filling

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
  2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously.
  3. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a custard (about 8–10 minutes).
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the custard filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake the assembled dessert for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  3. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Step 4: Add the Glaze (Optional)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the custard layer. Allow it to set before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Cut the chilled dessert into bars and serve.
  2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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