How to Make Vanilla Slice: A Classic Treat Made Easy

Vanilla slice, also known as custard slice or vanilla squares, is a beloved dessert that evokes feelings of pure joy with its layers of flaky pastry, smooth custard, and a dusting of powdered sugar. This seemingly simple treat is a true testament to the power of combining basic ingredients with a touch of culinary finesse.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating the perfect vanilla slice. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this classic dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 200g cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup (125ml) ice water

For the Custard:

• 2 cups (500ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (40g) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Icing sugar, for dusting

Equipment:

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Sharp knife

Let’s Get Baking!

Making the Pastry:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water: Gradually add the ice water to the flour mixture, stirring gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Custard:

1. Heat the milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Temper the egg yolks: Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg yolks to temper them, then pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
4. Cook the custard: Cook the custard over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional minute, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Cool the custard: Pour the custard into a bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate until completely chilled.

Assembling the Vanilla Slice:

1. Preheat oven & roll out dough: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the chilled dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a rectangle slightly larger than your baking sheet.
2. Blind bake the pastry: Place one sheet of pastry on a baking sheet. Prick the pastry all over with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining pastry sheet.
3. Assemble the layers: Once the pastry is cool, spread the chilled custard evenly over one sheet of pastry. Gently place the second pastry sheet on top of the custard.
4. Dust with icing sugar: Dust the top of the vanilla slice generously with icing sugar.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Vanilla Slice:

• Use cold ingredients: For the flakiest pastry, ensure your butter and water are ice-cold.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten, resulting in a tough pastry.
• Blind bake the pastry: Blind baking prevents the pastry from becoming soggy from the custard filling.
• Make ahead: Prepare the pastry and custard the day before assembling and serving for optimal convenience.
• Variations: Get creative with your vanilla slice by adding a layer of fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries, to the custard filling.

FAQs About Vanilla Slice:

Q: Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

A: Absolutely! Using store-bought puff pastry is a great time-saver. Just be sure to blind bake it according to package instructions.

Q: How do I prevent the pastry from shrinking while baking?

A: Pricking the pastry all over with a fork before baking allows steam to escape and helps prevent shrinkage.

Q: How long does vanilla slice last?

A: Vanilla slice is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Vanilla Slice Ingredients

Baking Vanilla Slice

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly made vanilla slice. The flaky pastry, smooth custard, and sweet dusting of powdered sugar create a symphony of textures and flavors that’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. So why not give this classic recipe a try? You might just discover your new favorite dessert!

Be sure to check out our other delectable dessert recipes on Family Cuisine, like our How to Make French Vanilla Slice for a twist on this classic, or if you’re looking for a no-bake treat, our No-Bake Cheesecake is always a hit! Happy baking!