vanilla custard bars

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Yields: 12 bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Topping (Optional):

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

 Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter.
2. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the Vanilla Custard Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Do not boil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

 Assemble and Bake:

1. Pour the vanilla custard filling over the baked crust.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the custard is set.
3. The custard should have a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken.

 Cool and Chill:

1. Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish.
2. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the custard is fully set.

 Cut and Serve:

1. Cut into bars of your desired size.
2. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Note: For clean cuts, dip the knife in hot water before slicing.

Enjoy these delicious Vanilla Custard Bars as a delightful treat with a smooth and creamy custard filling on a buttery crust.