Description
This No-Bake Custard Slice is a delightful layered dessert featuring crisp graham crackers or digestive biscuits, enveloped in a smooth, homemade vanilla custard. Topped with a simple powdered sugar icing, this treat requires minimal baking skills and no oven time, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive dessert. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy layers creates a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Layers
- 2 packs plain graham crackers or digestive biscuits (or vanilla wafers)
Custard Filling
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp butter
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the custard slice later.
- Layer the Biscuits: Arrange a layer of graham crackers or digestive biscuits evenly to cover the bottom of the prepared pan completely.
- Make the Custard Base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth with no lumps.
- Heat and Incorporate Egg Yolks: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. When the mixture is hot, slowly whisk in the egg yolks carefully to temper them and avoid scrambling.
- Thicken the Custard: Continue stirring continuously until the custard thickens significantly, about 5 to 7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Finalize Custard: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and combined, yielding a smooth custard.
- Assemble First Custard Layer: Pour half of the prepared custard evenly over the first biscuit layer in the pan.
- Add Second Biscuit Layer: Carefully place another layer of biscuits over the custard, covering it completely.
- Top with Remaining Custard: Pour the remaining custard over the second biscuit layer, spreading evenly.
- Finish with Final Biscuit Layer: Cover the top with the last layer of biscuits, pressing gently to flatten the layers.
- Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
- Ice the Top: Spread the icing evenly over the final biscuit layer to create a sweet finishing glaze.
- Chill: Place the assembled custard slice in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set and firm up.
- Serve: Once chilled, remove from the pan using the parchment paper, slice into squares and serve cold.
Notes
- Ensure the custard is thickened properly to avoid a runny dessert.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices.
- Overnight chilling improves texture and flavor melding.
- You may substitute vanilla wafers for a sweeter or vanilla-flavored base instead of plain biscuits.
- Adjust icing milk quantity for desired consistency.
