Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake

Elegant, creamy, and irresistibly flaky, this Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake is a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Layers of crisp, golden puff pastry sandwich a rich, velvety vanilla custard for a treat that looks like it came straight from a French patisserie. Whether served chilled for a summer gathering or as a refined finish to dinner, this easy-to-make cake is a true showstopper.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bakery-Style at Home – Flaky layers and creamy custard make it taste gourmet.
Simple Ingredients – Puff pastry and a homemade custard are all you need.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for brunch, birthdays, or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead – Best chilled, so it’s great for prepping the day before.
Light, Yet Indulgent – Creamy, flaky, and not overly sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake Layers:
2 sheets puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:
Whipped cream
Fresh berries
Chocolate drizzle
Icing sugar glaze

Tools You’ll Need
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowls
Plastic wrap
Serrated knife or bench scraper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Puff Pastry Layers

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place puff pastry sheets on parchment-lined baking sheets.
3. Prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing too much.
4. Brush with egg wash (whisk together 1 egg and 1 tbsp milk).
5. Place another piece of parchment and a second baking sheet on top to weigh it down.
6. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and crisp.
7. Let cool completely, then trim edges and cut each sheet into 2 equal rectangles (you’ll have 4 total layers).

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk until just steaming—not boiling.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
6. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly on the surface to prevent skin), and chill for at least 2 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one puff pastry layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread or pipe a layer of chilled custard evenly over the top.
3. Repeat with remaining layers, ending with the final pastry sheet on top.
4. Press down gently to compact layers without squeezing out the custard.

Step 4: Chill & Finish

1. Chill the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to set.
2. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, or drizzle with icing or melted chocolate.
3. Slice carefully using a serrated knife.

Tips for the Best Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake
Use Cold Pastry – Chilled pastry layers are easier to work with and don’t soften the custard.
Keep Custard Thick – A thicker custard holds up better between flaky layers.
Use a Bench Scraper – It helps create clean, even slices.
Customize It – Add fruit, flavor extracts, or swap vanilla for citrus zest.
Make Ahead – Best served after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Pair with coffee or hot tea for a lovely dessert course.
Dust with cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced twist.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Puff pastry may soften slightly but will still taste amazing.

Make Ahead:
Bake the pastry and make the custard a day ahead. Assemble the morning of your event for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade custard?
   Yes, for a shortcut. Just use less liquid than directed to keep it firm enough to layer.
2. Will the puff pastry stay crispy?
   It stays crispy for a few hours after assembly, then softens slightly but still tastes great.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
   It’s not recommended, as the custard can separate when thawed.
4. Can I make mini versions?
   Absolutely! Use small squares of puff pastry and pipe custard between them for individual desserts.
5. Is this the same as mille-feuille or Napoleon?
   It’s very similar! This version uses fewer layers and a simpler assembly, but delivers the same creamy-crisp contrast.

Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Custard Puff Pastry Cake is an effortlessly elegant dessert that brings together creamy, flaky, and sweet in one dreamy bite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, bringing dessert to a dinner, or just treating yourself to something special, this cake delivers bakery-quality results with easy steps and basic ingredients.

Try it out and tag your layered creation—I’d love to see your custard cake masterpiece!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: European-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 21g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 180mg

Print