Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flaky and creamy – The combination of crisp puff pastry and velvety custard makes this dessert irresistible.
- Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a homemade treat without any complicated steps.
- Perfect for make-ahead – Best when chilled overnight, making it a great dessert to prepare in advance.
- Customizable – You can add different flavors to the custard or icing for a unique twist.
- Crowd-pleaser – A classic dessert that’s loved by all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pastry
- Puff pastry sheets, thawed
For the Custard Filling
- Sugar
- Custard powder
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
For the Icing
- Icing sugar
- Softened butter
- Vanilla extract
- Milk (as needed)
Directions
Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (374°F).
- Place the thawed puff pastry sheets on a flat oven tray lined with baking paper.
- Prick the pastry all over with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until puffed, flaky, and golden.
- Transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
Make the Custard Filling
- In a large saucepan, whisk together sugar and custard powder.
- Add the cream, milk, and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over very low heat and continue whisking until the mixture thickens (this takes around 10-15 minutes).
- Pour the thick custard into a bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until mostly set.
Prepare the Icing
- In a bowl, mix icing sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
- Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Slice
- Place one layer of baked puff pastry into a lined 25 x 25 cm square tin or onto a flat plate.
- Spread the cooled custard evenly over the pastry.
- Place the second layer of puff pastry on top of the custard.
- Spread the vanilla icing over the top evenly with a spatula or flat knife.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours (overnight is best) to allow the custard to fully set.
Cutting and Serving
- Use a clean pair of scissors or a serrated knife to cut through the top layer of pastry.
- Then, run a sharp knife through the remaining layers to get neat slices.
- Serve chilled, straight from the fridge.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4-6 hours (overnight preferred)
- Total Time: 5-7 hours (including chilling)
Variations
- Chocolate Custard Slice – Replace vanilla custard with chocolate custard for a cocoa-infused version.
- Fruit-Flavored Custard – Add a splash of passionfruit, orange zest, or strawberry puree to the custard for a fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free puff pastry and ensure the custard powder is gluten-free.
- Lemon Icing – Swap vanilla extract with lemon juice in the icing for a tangy finish.
- Caramelized Top – Sprinkle powdered sugar on the top layer and lightly caramelize with a blowtorch for a crunchy finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the custard may become watery after thawing.
- Serving: Best served chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this custard slice in advance?
Yes! This dessert is best when chilled overnight, making it perfect for preparing a day ahead.
Why does my custard filling seem runny?
Make sure you cook the custard long enough until it thickens properly, and chill it before assembling the slice.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure the pastry is fully cooled before assembling, and refrigerate the slice long enough for the custard to set.
Can I use store-bought custard instead of homemade?
Yes, but homemade custard gives the best texture and flavor. Store-bought custard may be thinner and less stable.
What is the best way to cut the slice neatly?
Use scissors or a serrated knife for the top layer, then cut through the rest with a sharp knife.
Can I use filo pastry instead of puff pastry?
Puff pastry is ideal for this recipe, but filo can be used if layered and brushed with butter.
How long does it take for the custard to set?
It takes at least 4-6 hours, but overnight chilling is recommended for the best texture.
Can I add fruit to the custard?
Yes! Sliced bananas, strawberries, or passionfruit pulp can be added for extra flavor.
What can I use instead of custard powder?
You can use cornstarch and egg yolks to make a traditional custard if custard powder is unavailable.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free milk, cream, and butter alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
This classic vanilla custard slice is a delightful combination of flaky pastry, creamy custard, and smooth icing. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this bakery-style dessert is sure to impress. Try different variations and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!
Print
Vanilla Custard Slice
- Total Time: 5-7 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Vanilla Custard Slice is a decadent dessert with crisp layers of puff pastry, a rich vanilla custard filling, and a smooth sweet icing. Perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions, this bakery-style treat is easy to make at home and best enjoyed chilled. Try this creamy and flaky dessert for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing delight!
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
For the Custard Filling
- ½ cup sugar
- ⅓ cup custard powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Icing
- 1 ½ cups icing sugar
- 1 tbsp softened butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (as needed)
Instructions
Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat oven to 190°C (374°F).
- Lay puff pastry sheets on a lined baking tray, prick with a fork, and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
Make the Custard Filling
- In a saucepan, whisk sugar and custard powder.
- Add cream, milk, and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
- Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened (10-15 minutes).
- Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Prepare the Icing
- Mix icing sugar, butter, and vanilla.
- Add milk gradually until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Slice
- Place one pastry sheet in a 25×25 cm square tin.
- Spread custard evenly, then top with the second pastry sheet.
- Spread icing over the top and refrigerate for 4-6 hours (overnight preferred).
Cutting and Serving
- Use scissors or a serrated knife for the top layer, then a sharp knife for clean slices.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a chocolate version, add cocoa to the custard.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the custard may become watery.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Australian
