Are you looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting? Look no further than this Fluffy Vanilla Slice recipe! With layers of buttery puff pastry and creamy vanilla custard, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply treating yourself to a decadent treat, this vanilla slice is guaranteed to impress. So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Custard:
- 8 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- 1/3 cup corn starch
- 3 cups hot milk
- 2 tsp vanilla essence
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 sheets butter puff pastry
Instructions:
Making the Vanilla Custard:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and caster sugar until pale and creamy.
- Add the corn starch to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over medium heat.
- Cook the custard, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla essence and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Allow the custard to cool slightly, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled and set.
Assembling the Vanilla Slice:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Place one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking tray and prick it with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
- Bake the puff pastry in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Once the puff pastry has cooled, spread a thick layer of chilled vanilla custard evenly over the top.
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the custard layer and gently press down to adhere.
- Refrigerate the assembled vanilla slice for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set and the flavors to meld together.
Cook’s Notes and Tips:
- Choosing the Right Puff Pastry: Opt for high-quality butter puff pastry for the best results. Look for brands that use real butter for a rich and flaky texture.
- Thickening the Custard: Be patient when cooking the custard on the stovetop. It’s important to cook it slowly and stir constantly to prevent it from burning and to achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
- Chilling Time: Allowing the assembled vanilla slice to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours is crucial for the custard to set properly and for easy slicing.
Variations:
- Fruit Topping: Add a layer of fresh berries or sliced fruit on top of the custard for a burst of freshness and color.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the vanilla slice for an extra indulgent touch.
- Almond Flakes: Sprinkle toasted almond flakes over the custard layer for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Almond Flour Crust: Substitute almond flour pastry or almond flour crackers for the puff pastry to create a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this dessert.
- Sugar-Free Custard: Use a sugar-free sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, in place of sugar in the custard to reduce the carb content.
This Fluffy Vanilla Slice is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. With its layers of buttery puff pastry and velvety smooth vanilla custard, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Plus, with the option to customize it with your favorite toppings and flavors, you can easily make it your own. So why wait? Whip up a batch of this irresistible vanilla slice today and treat yourself to a little slice of heaven!
