Description
Light, flaky, and filled with luscious vanilla custard, this Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake is a dreamy dessert that combines elegance with simplicity. Layers of golden puff pastry are sandwiched with rich homemade custard and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the perfect treat for tea time, special occasions, or when you want a show-stopping dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Layers:
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
All-purpose flour, for dusting
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
2 cups whole milk
¼ cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
Fresh berries
Shaved chocolate
Whipped cream
Mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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On a lightly floured surface, unfold each sheet of puff pastry and roll it out slightly to even the edges.
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Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the pastry all over with a fork to prevent too much puffing.
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Place another piece of parchment on top, and add another baking sheet on top to weigh it down.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.
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Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard
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In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt over medium heat.
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Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil (5–7 minutes).
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Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until set and cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
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Once the pastry and custard are cooled, trim the pastry sheets into even rectangles if needed.
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Place one sheet on a serving platter.
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Spread the custard evenly over the first layer.
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Top with the second sheet of puff pastry, gently pressing down to secure.
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Dust with powdered sugar or your choice of toppings.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
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Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to help it set.
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Use a sharp serrated knife to cut clean slices.
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Serve cold with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Keep Pastry Flat – Use a baking sheet on top while baking to ensure crisp, even layers
Let Custard Cool Completely – Warm custard will soften the pastry too much
Chill Before Serving – Makes slicing easier and improves texture
Use a Serrated Knife – For clean, crisp cuts without crushing the pastry
Customize Freely – Add jam, lemon curd, or berries between layers for a twist
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: European