Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Homemade Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is a dessert that delights at any gathering. With its crisp, flaky pastry and rich custard, this treat stands out for its luxurious texture and flavor. Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence after dinner, this slice is sure to impress your guests with its elegant presentation and irresistible taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy vanilla custard and flaky puff pastry creates a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll find this recipe approachable, even if you’re not an experienced baker.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or as a special treat after dinner—this dessert works for any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: Dusting the finished slice with powdered sugar gives it a professional look that will wow your guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or toppings to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry, gather all necessary tools. This preparation ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Serrated knife
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 8×8-inch square pan
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking trays: Essential for evenly baking the puff pastry while keeping it flat.
• Serrated knife: Helps trim edges and cut the final slice without squashing the layers.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry

• 2 (8½ oz; 490g) sheets of puff pastry, (thawed)

For the Custard Filling

• 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)

For Garnish

• Powdered sugar, (for dusting)

this recipe

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.
• Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly to about 9×9 inches.
• Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
• Place the pastry sheets on the trays, then cover with another sheet of parchment and weigh them down with a second tray.

Step 2: Bake the Puff Pastry

• Bake for 35-45 minutes or until golden and crisp.
• Check around the 30-minute mark but allow it to cook until golden brown.
• Set aside and let cool completely.

Step 3: Trim the Edges

• Using a serrated knife, carefully trim the edges to fit an 8×8-inch square pan.
• It’s helpful to place this on top of a sheet of puff pastry and trim around the edges without pressing down.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together:
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
• Add in 6 large egg yolks, then whisk until thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Warm the Milk

• Place 3½ cups whole milk in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
• Warm until it begins to steam; do not boil.

Step 6: Temper the Eggs

• Slowly pour in 1 cup of warm milk into the sugar and egg mixture, whisking constantly until fully incorporated.
• Gradually pour this tempered mixture back into the saucepan with remaining milk and whisk until mixed.

Step 7: Cook, Then Add Butter

• Continue cooking over medium heat while whisking constantly until thickened and bubbling (about 5-7 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean seeds and cold cubed butter until fully mixed.

Step 8: Assemble, Then Chill

• Line an 8×8 pan on all sides with aluminum foil; leave enough overhang for easy removal.
• Place one piece of cooked puff pastry on bottom. Pour warm custard on top, smoothing out evenly.
• Place second piece of puff pastry on top; gently press down. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 9: Slice Then Serve!

• Lift out using foil overhang; transfer to cutting board.
• Use a serrated knife to cut into larger or smaller squares as desired. Clean blade between cuts for neat slices.
• Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Serving your Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this indulgent treat.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Top each slice with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Sliced Bananas: Add banana slices for a sweet and creamy contrast that complements the vanilla custard.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle adds a decadent touch to the elegant vanilla slice.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances the dessert’s sweetness while providing a lovely sticky texture.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream offers a smooth and creamy contrast to the flaky pastry.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: This adds a refreshing twist that pairs surprisingly well with the custard’s richness.

Garnish for Elegance

• Edible Flowers: Use edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums to add a beautiful, colorful touch on top of each slice.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds color but also a refreshing aroma that enhances every bite.

How to Perfect Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

To achieve the ultimate result in your Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill Thoroughly: Ensure that your assembled slice is refrigerated for at least 4 hours. This helps the custard set perfectly, making slicing easier.
• Use High-Quality Vanilla: Opt for pure vanilla extract or vanilla beans for an intense flavor that will elevate your custard.
• Avoid Overcooking Custard: Watch the custard closely as it thickens. Overcooking can lead to curdling, which affects texture and taste.
• Prick Pastry Well: Don’t skip pricking the pastry sheets before baking. This allows steam to escape, ensuring crispy layers instead of puffed-up dough.
• Trim Edges Neatly: To make even squares, trim the edges carefully after baking. This will give your dessert a professional look.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days while retaining their deliciousness.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

Complementing your dessert with side dishes can enhance its appeal. Consider these delightful options alongside your Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry.

1. Espresso Coffee: A shot of rich espresso balances the sweetness of the slice beautifully, making it an ideal coffee pairing.
2. Fresh Lemonade: The tangy citrus flavor provides a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Offer warm chocolate fondue as a dipping option for extra indulgence; perfect for chocolate lovers!
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your dessert plate.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can serve as an interesting contrast to the sweet flavors of the vanilla slice.
6. Pistachio Crumble: Adding a sprinkle of crunchy pistachio crumble on top provides texture and nutty flavors that pair wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfecting this dessert.

• Skipping the chilling time: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing the slice to set for at least four hours ensures that the custard firms up properly, making it easier to cut.
• Overbaking the puff pastry: Watch the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to a dry pastry, while underbaking may result in sogginess. Aim for a golden color and crisp texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and be sure to measure liquids correctly for the right custard consistency.
• Neglecting to sieve the custard: Sieving the custard helps remove any lumps and ensures a smooth texture. Don’t skip this step if you want that luxurious mouthfeel.
• Using cold butter: Ensure your butter is cold and cubed when added to the custard. This helps create a velvety texture as it melts into the warm mixture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Creamy Vanilla Slice in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s covered with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, which should take about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding citrus zest or using high-quality vanilla extract. Experimenting with different extracts like almond or coconut can give unique twists.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry saves time and effort! Just ensure it’s thawed properly before use for best results.

What can I serve alongside my Creamy Vanilla Slice?

This dessert pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream. You can also serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

The total time from prep to chill is about 5 hours and 15 minutes, including cooling time. Most of this is passive waiting, so plan accordingly!

Can I customize my Creamy Vanilla Slice?

Absolutely! Try adding flavors like coffee or caramel to the custard or even layer fruits between the puff pastry sheets for added freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its layers of flaky pastry and rich custard, it’s bound to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it with various flavors or toppings that suit your taste! Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

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Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 9 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heavenly delight of Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry—a dessert that effortlessly elevates any gathering. This elegant treat features layers of crisp, flaky pastry enveloping a rich, velvety vanilla custard that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this slice is sure to impress with its stunning presentation and irresistible flavor. Easy to prepare, it invites creativity through customizable toppings and flavors, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed)
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• 3½ cups whole milk (warm)
• 6 large egg yolks (room temperature)
• 1 vanilla bean (seeds scraped) or 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 9×9 inches and prick with a fork. Place on trays, cover with parchment, and weigh down with another tray. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden and crisp; let cool.
3. Trim edges to fit an 8×8-inch pan using a serrated knife.
4. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt; add egg yolks and combine.
5. Heat milk in another saucepan until steaming; temper eggs by adding warm milk gradually while whisking.
6. Return mixture to heat and whisk until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in vanilla seeds and butter until melted.
7. In an aluminum foil-lined pan, layer one piece of puff pastry, pour in custard, top with remaining pastry, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight before serving.
8. Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar before enjoying.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: General

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Chill the assembled slice thoroughly for optimal texture. Experiment with different extracts or add fruit between layers for unique flavors.