🍮 Vanilla Custard Bars
Makes: 9–12 bars | Prep Time: 15 mins | Bake Time: 35–40 mins | Chill Time: 2 hours
🛒 Ingredients:
For the crust:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup butter, softened
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¼ cup powdered sugar
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Pinch of salt
For the custard filling:
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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4 large egg yolks
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp cornstarch
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp butter
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the crust:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
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Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly and holds together when pressed.
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Press evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan.
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Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and cool slightly.
2. Prepare the custard:
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In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
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In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
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Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly (to temper the eggs).
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Pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
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Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
3. Bake the bars:
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Pour the custard over the baked crust in the pan.
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Bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
4. Chill & serve:
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Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
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Cut into bars and serve chilled.
🍽️ Tips:
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a pretty finish.
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Add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries on top!
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Use vanilla bean paste for extra flavor.
Want a dairy-free, keto, or mini custard tart version? Just let me know!
