Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake: A Flaky, Creamy Delight


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Light, flaky, and irresistibly creamy, this Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Layers of buttery puff pastry, silky vanilla custard, and fluffy whipped cream come together to create a decadent yet airy treat. Perfect for dinner parties, brunch, or a sweet indulgence, this elegant yet simple dessert will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!


Ingredients

For the Pastry Base:

  • 1 package puff pastry, thawed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Vanilla Custard:

  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups whipped cream
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Base

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Brush a 9×13-inch baking pan with melted butter.
  3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
  4. Press the pastry into an even layer at the bottom of the baking pan.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
  6. Let the pastry cool completely before adding the custard.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, egg yolks, and milk until smooth.
  2. Cook over medium heat, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Let the custard cool completely before assembling the cake.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Fold in the cooled vanilla custard and mix until well combined.
  3. Spread the custard mixture evenly over the cooled puff pastry base.
  4. Top with a generous layer of whipped cream.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

  1. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the layers to set.
  2. Slice into squares, serve chilled, and enjoy!

Notes

  • For Extra Flakiness: Bake the puff pastry until it’s deep golden brown to prevent it from softening under the custard.
  • Make It Ahead: This dessert is best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Add a Twist: Try drizzling caramel sauce, sprinkling crushed nuts, or adding fresh berries for extra flavor!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-Inspired