Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

If you’re looking for a dessert that never fails to impress, then this Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is just what you need! This delightful treat brings together the irresistibly flaky layers of pastry with a rich and creamy custard that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s a recipe that has become a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or those special family gatherings when you want to indulge without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so good that people will think you’ve spent all day making it!

This dreamy dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this creamy vanilla slice is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the combination of flaky pastry and sweet vanilla custard.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge—perfect for busy days!
• Elegant presentation: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an impressive touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry. You might even have some of these at home already!

• 2 (8½ oz; 490g) sheets of puff pastry, (thawed)
• ⅔ cup (133g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• 3½ cups (795g; 830ml) whole milk, (warm)
• 6 large egg yolks, (room temperature)
• 1 vanilla bean, (cut in half, seeds scraped out, or 2 tsp vanilla bean paste)
• 4 Tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, (cold, cubed)
• Powdered sugar, (for dusting)

Variations

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add a fruit layer: Consider layering fresh berries or sliced peaches between the custard and puff pastry for added flavor.
• Change the flavor: Swap out vanilla for almond or lemon extract to give your slice a unique twist.
• Go chocolatey: Mix in some cocoa powder into your custard for a chocolate version that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Top with whipped cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream for extra creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly to about 9×9 inches and prick them all over with a fork. This helps prevent puffing during baking. Place the pastry sheets on the trays, cover them with another sheet of parchment, and weigh them down with another tray. This ensures they bake evenly flat!

Step 2: Bake the Puff Pastry

Bake the puff pastry for approximately 35-45 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them after about 30 minutes; we want those lovely golden edges! Once done, set them aside to cool completely before moving on.

Step 3: Trim the Edges

Using a serrated knife, carefully trim the edges of your cooled puff pastry so they fit perfectly into an 8×8-inch square pan. This step is important because it creates neat edges for your final slice that will look beautiful when served.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and kosher salt until well combined. Then add in those luscious egg yolks and whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed together. This mixture will form the base of your creamy custard!

Step 5: Warm the Milk

Pour whole milk into another saucepan over medium heat and warm it until steaming—don’t let it boil! Warming the milk helps create a smooth texture in your custard.

Step 6: Temper the Eggs

Here’s where we combine our ingredients! Slowly pour in one cup of warm milk into your egg mixture while whisking continuously—this process tempers the eggs so they don’t scramble when added to hot liquid. Gradually whisk this mixture back into the remaining warm milk in your saucepan.

Step 7: Cook, Then Add Butter

Keep cooking over medium heat while whisking constantly until your custard thickens and bubbles gently—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in those beautiful vanilla seeds along with cold cubed butter until fully blended.

Step 8: Assemble, Then Chill

Line your square pan fully on all sides with aluminum foil—this makes removal easier later! Place one piece of cooked puff pastry at the bottom, pour that warm custard over it (feel free to sieve if you want extra smoothness), smoothen it out evenly, then top it off with another piece of puff pastry. Gently press down to adhere everything together before covering tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight—it’ll be worth the wait!

Step 9: Slice Then Serve!

When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy vanilla slice, carefully lift it out using the foil overhang. Transfer it to a cutting board and use a serrated knife to cut into squares—score first if needed! Wipe down your knife between cuts for neat slices before dusting generously with powdered sugar.

Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Creating the perfect Creamy Vanilla Slice is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time.

• Use cold ingredients for the custard: Starting with cold butter and room-temperature egg yolks helps create a smoother custard, preventing any lumps and ensuring a velvety finish.

• Don’t rush the baking process: Allowing the puff pastry to bake until golden brown is crucial for achieving that flaky texture. Underbaking can lead to a soggy base, which won’t hold up well when sliced.

• Cool completely before assembling: Ensure both the puff pastry and custard are at room temperature or cooler before assembling. This prevents melting and ensures distinct layers in your vanilla slice.

• Sieve the custard (optional): Running the custard through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it onto the pastry will catch any lumps for an ultra-smooth finish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

• Score before slicing: Lightly scoring the top layer of puff pastry before cutting into squares can guide your knife and help achieve cleaner cuts, making your dessert look even more inviting.

How to Serve Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Presenting your Creamy Vanilla Slice beautifully enhances its appeal. With just a few simple touches, you can elevate this already exquisite dessert into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy custard.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only add color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the slice.
• Chocolate shavings: Lightly sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that introduces an indulgent element without overpowering the vanilla flavor.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: Light and fluffy, whipped coconut cream serves as a delightful accompaniment that adds creaminess while keeping everything dairy-free.
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich vanilla slice, enhancing your dessert experience.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who want an extra chilled treat, serving with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream offers creamy goodness alongside your vanilla slice.
• Herbal tea: Pairing this dessert with a soothing cup of herbal tea can enhance flavors and provide a lovely after-meal experience, perfect for winding down.

By following these tips and presentation ideas, you’ll be sure to impress your friends and family with your homemade Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry! Enjoy every delectable bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert any time. You can easily make it in advance, store it properly, and savor its rich flavors later.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Consider placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• While this dessert is best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a warm version:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dessert.

Can I make Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the assembly instructions, refrigerate overnight, and it’s ready to serve when you are!

What can I use instead of cornstarch in Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry?

You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Both work well as thickening agents for the custard.

How do I ensure my puff pastry is flaky?

To achieve that perfect flaky texture, make sure not to skip any steps while preparing the pastry. Also, keeping the butter cold and folding the dough properly will help create those beautiful layers.

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk for this recipe?

Yes, almond milk or other plant-based milks can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly compared to using whole milk.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry as much as I do! It’s such a delightful treat that combines elegance and indulgence perfectly. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, this dessert is sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. Happy baking!