### **Vanilla Custard Cream Squares 🍮**

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a rich, creamy vanilla custard and finished with a light, fluffy whipped cream. A perfect dessert for any occasion, this treat is both elegant and delicious.

#### **Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

– **Graham Cracker Crumbs:** 1 ½ cups
– **Melted Butter:** ⅓ cup
– **Granulated Sugar:** ¼ cup

**For the Custard:**

– **Whole Milk:** 2 cups
– **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup
– **Granulated Sugar:** ¾ cup
– **Egg Yolks:** 5 large
– **Vanilla Extract:** 2 teaspoons
– **Cornstarch:** 3 tablespoons

**For the Whipped Cream:**

– **Heavy Cream:** 1 ½ cups
– **Powdered Sugar:** ¼ cup
– **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon

#### **Instructions:**

**1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:**

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

**2. Prepare the Crust:**

– In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
– Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
– Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

**3. Make the Custard:**

– In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth.

**4. Temper the Egg Mixture:**

– Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
– Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture while continuing to whisk.

**5. Cook the Custard:**

– Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling, about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

**6. Assemble:**

– Pour the custard over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer.
– Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the custard is set.

**7. Make the Whipped Cream:**

– In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

**8. Top and Serve:**

– Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set custard layer, creating a smooth top.
– Cut into squares for serving.
– Garnish with additional whipped cream or white chocolate shavings if desired.
– Serve chilled.

### **Tips for Success:**

– **Cornstarch:** Ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the egg mixture to avoid lumps in the custard.
– **Tempering Eggs:** Gradually adding the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture helps to prevent the eggs from curdling.
– **Cooling Time:** Allow the custard to fully set in the refrigerator for the best texture before adding the whipped cream.

### **Prep Time:** 20 minutes | **Cook Time:** 10 minutes | **Chill Time:** 2 hours | **Total Time:** 2.5 hours | **Servings:** 9-12 squares

These Vanilla Custard Cream Squares are a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce. Enjoy!