Description
This Bacon Vanilla Custard Cream Squares recipe combines rich, smooth vanilla custard, flaky puff pastry, and crispy bacon, creating an unexpectedly delightful dessert. The smoky bacon adds a savory depth to the sweet custard, while layers of light puff pastry and whipped cream elevate the experience to new heights. It’s a unique twist on a classic pastry that will leave your guests asking for more!
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 large eggs (separated)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons rum (optional)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 6 slices smoked bacon (crispy and chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place each sheet of puff pastry on separate baking sheets and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow the pastries to cool. - Prepare Custard Mixture
In a saucepan, heat 3 cups of whole milk over medium heat until just before boiling. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and vanilla extract, then stir in the remaining 1 cup of milk. Optionally, add rum for extra flavor. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly. - Incorporate Beaten Egg Whites
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the cooled custard mixture to lighten it. - Assemble the Layers
Place one cooled sheet of puff pastry in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the pastry and spread evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the custard to set. - Prepare Whipped Cream Topping
Beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set custard layer. - Add the Final Puff Pastry Layer
Cut the second sheet of puff pastry into 15 squares and arrange them on top of the whipped cream layer. - Chill & Serve
Chill the assembled dessert for another 2 hours. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Bacon: For the best texture, fry the bacon until crispy and chop it finely before adding it to the custard.
- Pastry Alternatives: While puff pastry is ideal, you can experiment with phyllo dough or shortcrust pastry for different textures.
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared up to 2 days ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (baking puff pastry) + 3-4 minutes (custard)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Chilling
- Cuisine: American