Vanilla Custard Slice (Napoleon Slice)

I’m Introduction

The Vanilla Custard Slice is a delicate dessert made of crispy pastry and creamy custard layers that melt in your mouth. Often known as Mille-feuille (meaning “a thousand layers” in French), this dessert combines texture, flavor, and elegance in every bite. It’s a bakery favorite that balances lightness with richness — perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

History

The origins of the custard slice trace back to France in the 17th century, where it was known as mille-feuille. The recipe spread across Europe, taking on local variations. In Britain and Australia, it became known as “Custard Slice,” while in Eastern Europe (especially in Poland, Croatia, and Hungary), it’s called Kremšnita or Krempita. Despite its many names, one thing remains constant — flaky pastry, creamy custard, and that irresistible dusting of sugar on top.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Layers:

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 6 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, whipped (optional for extra lightness)

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Pastry:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets and place them on baking trays lined with parchment paper.
3. Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
5. Let cool completely, then trim edges to fit your baking dish.

Step 2 – Make the Custard Cream:

1. In a saucepan, heat 3 cups of milk and sugar until just simmering.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, and the remaining cup of milk until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
4. Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, add butter and vanilla extract, and stir until smooth.
6. Allow to cool slightly, then fold in whipped cream if you want a lighter texture.

Step 3 – Assemble:

1. Place one pastry sheet at the bottom of a rectangular dish.
2. Pour the custard cream evenly over it.
3. Top with the second pastry sheet and press gently.
4. Chill for at least 3–4 hours (or overnight) until set.

Step 4 – Serve:

• Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.

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Methods

• Stabilize the cream: Adding cornstarch ensures the custard holds its shape.
• Chilling time: Crucial for clean slices — the longer it sets, the neater the cut.
• Fork holes in pastry: Prevents excessive puffing for a flat, crisp layer.

Benefits

• Rich in protein and calcium from eggs and milk.
• Perfect energy dessert for celebrations.
• Homemade freshness — no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Formation

This dessert consists of two or three thin layers of puff pastry sandwiching a thick, creamy vanilla custard. The top is lightly dusted with powdered sugar or sometimes glazed with icing.

Nutrition (per slice)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 6g
• Calcium: 12% DV

For the Lovers

If you love creamy, melt-in-your-mouth desserts, this Vanilla Custard Slice is pure bliss. Every bite is a combination of crisp pastry and silky custard that feels like heaven — a dessert for true pastry lovers.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Custard Slice is a timeless treat that represents the essence of classic European baking — elegant, comforting, and irresistibly delicious. Whether served at a family gathering, afternoon tea, or a romantic dinner, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress.