Description
Delicate and indulgent dessert squares featuring layers of crunchy walnuts, buttery crust, and silky vanilla custard cream. These elegant treats are perfect for special occasions or a sweet midday indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for custard)
- Whipped cream or powdered sugar, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press dough evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over the crust and press gently.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden. Remove and let cool completely.
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened, about 6–8 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture to temper, then whisk the yolks into the pan.
- Continue cooking for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and 1 tbsp butter until smooth.
- Pour custard over cooled crust. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Cut into squares and top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, toast walnuts before adding to the crust.
- Chill overnight for clean, firm slices.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg