Meta Info
Servings: 9 squares
Total Time: ~3 hours (including chilling)
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~210
Macros (approx.):
Protein: ~9g | Carbs: ~6g | Fat: ~18g
Intro
There’s something deeply comforting about a dessert that’s simple, creamy, and not overly sweet. These Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares are the kind of recipe you make once—and then keep coming back to whenever you want something that feels indulgent but still fits into a balanced, high-protein lifestyle.
Made with eggs, cream, and real vanilla, this custard sets into soft, sliceable squares with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s rich without being heavy, lightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying after meals or as a make-ahead treat during the week.
If you’re craving a dessert that feels classic, calming, and quietly luxurious—this one delivers, with minimal ingredients and maximum payoff.
Look at the Recipe
- Silky-smooth, creamy texture that slices clean once chilled
- Naturally protein-rich thanks to eggs and dairy
- Perfect for make-ahead desserts or portion-controlled treats
Ingredients Needed
Custard Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk (or extra cream for richer texture)
- 4 large eggs
- ⅓–½ cup sweetener of choice (allulose recommended)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Pinch of salt
Optional (for firmer squares)
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder or
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (very optional)
How to Make Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares
1. Prep
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting later.
2. Heat the Cream
In a saucepan, gently heat the cream and milk until steaming—do not boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
3. Mix the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, sweetener, and salt until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling.
If using gelatin:
Bloom it first in 2 tablespoons of warm cream, then whisk into the custard mixture.
4. Bake
Pour custard into prepared pan.
Place pan inside a larger baking dish and carefully add hot water halfway up the sides (water bath).
Bake for 35–40 minutes until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
5. Chill & Slice
Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Lift out using parchment, slice into squares, and serve chilled or lightly cool.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Serve cold for clean slices or slightly tempered for extra creaminess
- Dust lightly with powdered sweetener or top with fresh berries if desired
Tips & FAQs
Can I make this higher in protein?
Yes. You can replace part of the cream with high-protein milk or add 1–2 tablespoons of collagen peptides.
Do I have to use a water bath?
Strongly recommended. It prevents cracking and keeps the custard silky smooth.
Can I freeze custard squares?
Not ideal. Freezing changes the texture—this dessert is best enjoyed fresh and chilled.
What sweetener works best?
Allulose gives the smoothest, most classic custard texture, but monk fruit blends also work.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Vanilla Custard Squares prove that dessert doesn’t need to be complicated—or overly sweet—to feel special. They’re calm, comforting, and quietly indulgent, with enough protein to keep you satisfied and enough elegance to serve anytime. Keep a batch in the fridge, and you’ll always have a dessert that feels like a win.
