Cream Cheese Custard Bars: A Velvety, Two-Layered Dream

Ingredients

 

For the Shortbread Crust

 

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

 

½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

 

½ cup (115g) cold butter, cubed

 

1 tsp vanilla extract

 

For the Cream Cheese Layer

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

 

¼ cup (50g) sugar

 

1 large egg

 

1 tsp vanilla extract

 

For the Custard Layer

2 cups (480ml) whole milk

 

3 large eggs

 

½ cup (100g) sugar

 

2 tbsp cornstarch

 

1 tsp vanilla extract

 

Pinch of salt

 

Optional Garnish

Fresh berries

 

Powdered sugar

 

Caramel drizzle

 

‍ Step-by-Step Instructions

 

1. Make the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment.

 

In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, butter, and vanilla until crumbly.

 

Press firmly into the pan. Bake 15 mins until lightly golden.

 

2. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

 

Add egg and vanilla, mix until creamy.

 

Spread over warm crust (this prevents cracks!).

 

3. Create the Custard

Whisk milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and salt in a saucepan.

 

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (8-10 mins).

 

Pour over cream cheese layer.

 

4. Bake & Chill

Bake 25-30 mins until edges are set (center will jiggle slightly).

 

Cool 1 hour, then refrigerate 4+ hours (overnight preferred).

 

5. Slice & Serve

Run a knife around edges, lift using parchment.

 

Cut into squares, garnish, and enjoy chilled!

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