Description
These Fruit Custard Bars are a deliciously refreshing dessert perfect for summer, featuring a buttery baked crust topped with a creamy vanilla custard and fresh mixed fruit. Chill to set, then dust with powdered sugar for a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Custard
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup fresh mixed fruit, such as strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, and mango, diced small
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and cold butter cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Custard Base: While the crust is baking, heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Milk and Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the custard thickens and starts to bubble.
- Add Flavorings and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using. Allow the custard to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the warm custard over the baked crust and spread it evenly. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours or until the custard is fully set.
- Add Fresh Fruit Topping: Once the custard has set, top with the diced fresh mixed fruit. Lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar.
- Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 12 bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use firm, fresh fruit to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy.
- If preparing in advance, add the fresh fruit topping just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- For a different crust, substitute with a graham cracker base for a more crumbly texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
