Vanilla Custard Cream Squares - Romanian Cremes, or Cremsnit
Vanilla Custard Cream Squares, also known as Romanian Cremsnit, are a delightful dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla custard, airy whipped cream, and crisp puff pastry. This dessert stands out with its smooth, pudding-like filling and a whipped cream layer that enhances both its flavor and texture.
The final touch, a crumbled top sheet of puff pastry, adds a delicate crunch. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade puff pastry, this recipe promises a fine, delicious treat that's both easy to prepare and serve. Perfect for any occasion, it's a sweet you'll want to enjoy again and again.
Prepare the sheets using store-bought puff pastry.
Divide the dough into 2 pieces.
Lightly sprinkle flour on your work surface. Roll out each piece of puff pastry slightly to match the size of your oven tray.
Place the pastry sheets on baking paper and bake at 200°C for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
Once baked, gently press the puff pastry sheets with the back of a knife while still hot to create a flatter, more uniform surface.
Allow the puff pastry sheets to cool completely.
Prepare the vanilla custard cream:
- In a thick-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the eggs and sugar thoroughly.
- Add the corn starch and vanilla extract (or natural vanilla powder). Mix well to prevent lumps.
- Pour in the milk gradually while stirring to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring periodically.
When the mixture thickens, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter.
Allow the custard to cool slightly.
Pour the hot vanilla custard over one sheet of puff pastry.
Level the custard layer and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set.
Whip the heavy cream with 100 g of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled vanilla custard layer.
Ensure the custard is fully cooled to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
Smooth the whipped cream layer and spread it over the cake edges for a neat finish.
Cut the second puff pastry sheet into smaller pieces, selecting the crispiest, most golden parts for topping.
Place these pastry pieces over the whipped cream and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Allow the dessert to set for 7-8 hours, or preferably overnight, to develop its full flavor.
Slice into portions and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Custard Cream Squares!
