Lemon Vanilla Cream Slice (Creamy Custard Puff Pastry Bars)

Suggested Time

Afternoon tea, dessert, or weekend brunch

Servings

9 squares

Prep Time

30 minutes

Chill Time

3 hours

Total Time

3 hours 45 minutes

Calories

Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Pastry Layers

• 2 sheets puff pastry

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Lemon Vanilla Custard

• 500 ml whole milk

• 120 ml heavy cream

• 4 egg yolks

• 100 g granulated sugar

• 40 g cornstarch

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 30 g unsalted butter

Topping

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.

2. Place puff pastry sheets on lined baking trays.

3. Prick thoroughly with a fork.

4. Cover with another baking tray to keep them flat.

5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.

6. Cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard

1. In a bowl whisk:

   • Egg yolks

   • Sugar

   • Cornstarch

2. Heat milk, cream, and lemon zest until steaming.

3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking.

4. Return to the saucepan.

5. Cook over medium heat until thick and smooth.

6. Remove from heat and stir in:

   • Butter

   • Vanilla extract

   • Lemon juice

7. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface.

8. Cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Place one pastry sheet in a square baking dish.

2. Spread the custard evenly (about 2–3 cm thick).

3. Top with the second pastry sheet.

4. Gently press.

Step 4: Chill

1. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

2. Overnight chilling gives the cleanest slices.

Step 5: Finish

1. Dust heavily with powdered sugar.

2. Slice into squares using a serrated knife.

Why This Dessert Works

The dessert combines three textures:

• Crisp buttery puff pastry

• Rich silky vanilla custard

• Bright citrus notes from fresh lemon

The contrast creates a pastry similar to a French mille-feuille or classic custard slice, with a lighter and fresher flavor profile.

Who Will Enjoy It

Perfect for:

• Vanilla lovers

• Custard dessert fans

• Afternoon tea gatherings

• Family celebrations

• Summer desserts when served chilled

Energy-Saving Tip

Bake both pastry sheets on separate racks in the oven at the same time rather than in batches. This reduces cooking time and saves electricity while ensuring even browning.

Pro Tips

• Chill the custard completely before assembling.

• Use a hot knife for cleaner cuts.

• Add extra lemon zest if a stronger citrus flavor is desired.

• For an ultra-luxurious version, fold 150 ml whipped cream into the cooled custard before assembling.

• Refrigerated leftovers stay fresh for up to 3 days.