Vanilla Custard Bars

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Vanilla Custard Bars

Introduction and Origin

Vanilla Custard Bars are a delightful, creamy dessert that combine the richness of custard with a light, buttery crust. These bars bring the traditional custard experience into a more portable, easy-to-serve form.

Originating in Western and European desserts, the idea of custard-filled pastries and bars has evolved over centuries, with vanilla being the most beloved and versatile flavor.

Cultural Significance

Custard-based desserts have long been a staple in European baking, particularly in British and French traditions, where custard is often paired with fruits or used as a filling for tarts and pies.

Vanilla, the most popular flavor, adds a comforting sweetness.

Vanilla Custard Bars reflect modern innovations in dessert-making, providing a rich yet manageable portion of custard without the complexity of traditional pies or tarts.

Ingredients Quantity (Makes 12 bars)

  • For the crust:
    • All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
    • Sugar: 1/4 cup
    • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
    • Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), cold and cubed
    • Egg yolk: 1
  • For the custard filling:
    • Milk: 2 cups
    • Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
    • Sugar: 1 cup
    • Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons
    • Egg yolks: 4
    • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
    • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

Optional Additions

  1. Citrus zest: Lemon or orange zest can be added to the custard for a refreshing twist.
  2. Caramel drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce on top of the custard bars for added richness.
  3. Fresh berries: Top with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for added color and flavor.
  4. Almond extract: A splash of almond extract can give the custard a unique, nutty flavor.

Tips for Success

  1. Ensure your butter is cold when making the crust to achieve a flaky texture.
  2. When making the custard, whisk constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
  3. Allow the custard bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices.
  4. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for a cleaner finish.
  5. For an extra smooth custard, strain it through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the crust.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and pulse until the dough comes together. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, and bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden. Set aside to cool.
  2. Make the custard filling: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt until smooth. Gradually add the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking constantly until the custard thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Assemble the bars: Pour the custard filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  6. Serve: Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled.

Description

Vanilla Custard Bars are a creamy, smooth dessert nestled in a flaky, buttery crust.

The vanilla-infused custard provides a perfect balance of sweetness, while the crust adds a satisfying crunch.

These bars are a great alternative to traditional custard tarts, offering all the rich flavors with less fuss.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 bar)

  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 18g

Conclusion and Recommendation

Vanilla Custard Bars are a luxurious yet simple dessert, perfect for any occasiThey combine the comfort of vanilla custard with a delightful, buttery crust that will have everyone coming back for more.

Make sure to allow time for chilling before serving to ensure the perfect texture.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk and reduce the sugar.

Incorporating whole grain flour in the crust can add fiber and nutrients.

While this is a rich dessert, indulging in it occasionally can be a satisfying and wholesome way to enjoy the comfort of custard in a modern form.

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