Description
This Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is the ultimate bakery-style dessert you can make at home. It features two crisp, golden layers of oven-baked puff pastry sandwiched around a thick, silky vanilla custard that’s rich, smooth, and deeply fragrant. Once chilled and dusted with powdered sugar, each slice delivers the perfect contrast between flaky crunch and creamy softness.
Elegant yet comforting, this vanilla slice is a show-stopping dessert that feels luxurious without requiring advanced pastry skills. It’s a timeless classic that’s always a crowd favorite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Home bakers who love classic European-style desserts
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Anyone wanting a bakery-quality dessert at home
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Make-ahead dessert planners
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Vanilla lovers who appreciate rich custard
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Special occasions, afternoon tea, or holidays
Why It’s Great
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Ultra-creamy vanilla custard with real vanilla flavor
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Crisp, flaky pastry layers baked flat for clean slicing
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Perfect make-ahead dessert
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Elegant presentation with simple ingredients
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Balanced sweetness that isn’t overpowering
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Layers
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2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (about 8½ oz / 245 g each)
Vanilla Custard Filling
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â…” cup granulated sugar
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½ cup cornstarch
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¼ tsp salt
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3½ cups whole milk, warmed
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6 large egg yolks, room temperature
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1 vanilla bean (seeds scraped) or 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Finishing
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Baking trays
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Parchment paper
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Saucepan
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Whisk
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Mixing bowls
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8×8-inch square pan
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Aluminum foil
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Serrated knife
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Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Puff Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper. Lightly roll out each puff pastry sheet and prick all over with a fork.
Place pastry on trays, cover with parchment, and top with another baking tray to keep them flat. Bake for 35–45 minutes until deeply golden and crisp. Cool completely.
Trim pastry sheets to fit an 8×8-inch pan using a serrated knife.
2. Prepare the Custard Base
In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
In a separate pot, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
3. Temper and Cook the Custard
Slowly whisk one cup of warm milk into the egg mixture to temper it. Pour the mixture back into the remaining milk.
Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and bubbling (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla seeds (or paste) and cold butter cubes until smooth and glossy.
4. Assemble the Vanilla Slice
Line the pan with foil, leaving overhang on all sides. Place one pastry sheet in the bottom.
Pour the warm custard over the pastry and smooth evenly. Top with the second pastry sheet, pressing gently.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
5. Slice and Serve
Lift out using foil overhang. Use a serrated knife to score the top pastry, then cut into 9 large or 16 small squares.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Make-ahead: Best made 12–24 hours in advance
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Freezing: Can be frozen up to 1 month, but pastry may soften slightly
FAQ
Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean?
Yes, substitute with 2 teaspoons high-quality vanilla extract.
Why bake the pastry weighed down?
This keeps it flat and crisp, making the slice easier to assemble and cut.
How do I get clean slices?
Score the top layer first and wipe the knife between cuts.
Can I strain the custard?
Yes, for extra smoothness, strain before assembling.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vanilla Slice with Flaky Puff Pastry is the perfect balance of elegance and indulgence. With its crisp pastry layers and rich vanilla custard, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a special treat at home, this timeless classic delivers bakery-quality results every single time.
