Vanilla custard bars recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 pinch salt

For the custard filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Bake the crust:
   Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
3. Make the custard filling:
   In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
4. Temper the eggs:
   In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
5. Cook custard:
   Continue cooking and stirring for 2-3 more minutes until very thick. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Assemble the bars:
   Pour the custard over the baked crust and spread evenly. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
7. Serve:
   Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy vanilla custard bars!

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