It’s based upon a pastry that’s popular throughout Central and Eastern Europe called ‘kremsnite.’ Well, it goes by many names (kremsnita, cremeschnitte…) but most of them mean ‘cream slice.’ And we’re sure they’re all delicious. Our version is almost no bake and involves a quick vanilla custard topped with an airy layer of whipped cream.

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

Vanilla Custard Cream

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Topping (optional)

• Powdered sugar for dusting

How To Make Vanilla Custard Cream Squares

Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cold butter. Rub together with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch baking pan.
Bake for 18–22 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, whisk sugar and cornstarch together.
Slowly whisk in milk and egg yolks.
Place over medium heat and stir constantly until thick and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat. Stir in butter, vanilla, and salt.
Assemble
Pour warm custard over cooled crust. Smooth the top.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully set.
Serve
Slice into squares. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.