Custard Slice is a delightful dessert that combines flaky puff pastry and silky stovetop custard, topped with a signature swirled icing. This classic treat holds a special place in many hearts, evoking nostalgia and sweet memories of family gatherings. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience of creating something so comforting and delicious. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, this custard dessert will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Custard Slice
This creamy custard slice is loved for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Second, with its flaky pastry and rich custard filling, it delivers a satisfying texture and flavor combination that’s hard to resist. You’ll appreciate the versatility of this dish; it can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with fruit toppings. Additionally, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a special celebration. The vanilla custard slice recipe is a crowd-pleaser that showcases timeless flavors and classic techniques. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can be adapted for gluten-free diets!
Ingredients for Custard Slice
Gather these items:
- 2 sheets flaky puff pastry, defrosted
- 2/3 cup custard powder
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 L milk
- 1 egg
- 50 g butter
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 25 g butter, softened
- 4–5 Tbsp hot water
- 1 Tbsp cocoa
How to Make Custard Slice Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 220°C fan bake. Line a 21 cm square tin with baking paper up the sides.
- Step 2: Place pastry sheets on a lined tray, prick with a fork, and bake for 8 minutes. Press flat using another tray, bake for 8 more minutes, press again, then cool.
- Step 3: For the custard: In one bowl, whisk custard powder, sugar, vanilla, and 1/2 cup milk until smooth. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with another 1/2 cup milk.
- Step 4: Heat remaining 3 cups milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the custard mixture, bring to a boil, then simmer for ~5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
- Step 5: Add egg mixture and butter; stir for 2 minutes more. Let cool slightly.
- Step 6: Trim pastry to fit tin. Place one sheet inside, pour custard on top, and spread evenly. Add the second pastry sheet and press gently.
- Step 7: For the icing: Mix icing sugar, softened butter, and hot water to a smooth white icing. Reserve 3 Tbsp, mix with cocoa to make chocolate icing. Spread white icing over the slice. Pipe thin lines of chocolate icing across and drag a skewer through them in alternating directions to create a feathered pattern.
- Step 8: Chill for at least 5 hours or overnight. Slice cold with a sharp serrated knife.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Custard Slice
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure that your puff pastry is completely defrosted before using for best results.
- When making the custard, stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- For added flavor, consider infusing your milk with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.
- If you’re looking for an easy custard slice dessert, this recipe can be made a day in advance!
- To avoid soggy pastry, ensure that your custard is not too runny before pouring it over the pastry.
- This traditional custard slice recipe can be adapted by adding chocolate or fruit toppings.
Best Ways to Serve Custard Slice
There are many delicious ways to enjoy your custard slice. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent finish.
How to Store and Reheat Custard Slice
To store your custard slice, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to a week. If you’d like to reheat it, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This dessert is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Custard Slice
What is a custard slice?
A custard slice is a dessert made from layers of flaky pastry filled with creamy custard and often topped with icing. It’s a popular treat in Australia, beloved for its rich flavor and delightful texture.
Can I make custard slice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare a custard slice ahead of time! It’s best if you allow it to chill overnight, which enhances the flavors and helps it set properly.
How do I avoid common mistakes with custard slice?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your pastry is fully baked and cooled before adding custard. Additionally, whisk the custard mixture thoroughly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
Variations of Custard Slice You Can Try
There are numerous ways to customize your custard slice:
- For a fruity twist, add a layer of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or peaches, before the final pastry layer.
- Try a gluten-free custard slice recipe by substituting traditional pastry with gluten-free alternatives.
- Experiment with different flavorings in your custard, such as almond or lemon, to create unique variations.
- Top with a chocolate ganache for a rich and decadent finish.
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our dessert recipes or learn how to make pavlova for a delightful treat!
For tips on baking techniques, visit this guide on cinnamon rolls to enhance your baking skills.
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Delicious Custard Slice: 12 Amazing Tips for Perfection
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic custard slice with flaky puff pastry, silky stovetop custard, and a signature swirled icing.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets flaky puff pastry, defrosted
- 2/3 cup custard powder
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 L milk
- 1 egg
- 50 g butter
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 25 g butter, softened
- 4–5 Tbsp hot water
- 1 Tbsp cocoa
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 220°C fan bake. Line a 21 cm square tin with baking paper up the sides.
- Place pastry sheets on a lined tray, prick with a fork, and bake for 8 minutes. Press flat using another tray, bake 8 more minutes, press again, then cool.
- For the custard: In one bowl, whisk custard powder, sugar, vanilla, and 1/2 cup milk until smooth. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with another 1/2 cup milk.
- Heat remaining 3 cups milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the custard mixture, bring to a boil, then simmer for ~5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
- Add egg mixture and butter; stir for 2 minutes more. Let cool slightly.
- Trim pastry to fit tin. Place one sheet inside, pour custard on top, and spread evenly. Add second pastry sheet and press gently.
- For the icing: Mix icing sugar, softened butter, and hot water to a smooth white icing. Reserve 3 Tbsp, mix with cocoa to make chocolate icing. Spread white icing over the slice. Pipe thin lines of chocolate icing across and drag a skewer through them in alternating directions to create a feathered pattern.
- Chill for at least 5 hours or overnight. Slice cold with a sharp serrated knife.
Notes
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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