Old-School Vanilla Cremora Custard Slice – A Nostalgic No-Bake Delight
There is a certain charm in desserts that evoke memories of simpler times, when the flavors were gentle, familiar, and comforting. The old-school vanilla Cremora custard slice is one of those treats. This no-bake dessert offers a creamy custard filling nestled between crisp layers, bringing a nostalgic touch to any table. It is simple to make, requires no oven, and delivers a dessert that is both indulgent and approachable.
The heart of this custard slice lies in the creamy, velvety custard filling. Using Cremora, a non-dairy creamer, gives the custard a smooth, rich texture and a slightly sweet, vanilla-forward flavor that complements the layers perfectly. Combined with milk, sugar, and a touch of cornstarch or flour for thickening, the result is a custard that sets beautifully without needing baking. Its gentle vanilla notes make it universally appealing, and the creamy consistency contrasts wonderfully with the crisp biscuit or pastry layers that form the base and top of the slice.
For this dessert, the layers are key. A simple biscuit or Marie biscuit base provides structure and a slightly crunchy texture. These biscuits absorb a small amount of moisture from the custard but remain firm enough to maintain a distinct layer. The custard is spread evenly over the base and topped with another layer of biscuits, creating a neat, sliceable dessert. The contrast between the soft, creamy custard and the slightly firm biscuits gives each bite a delightful balance of texture.
Here are the ingredients typically used for a classic batch:
For the base and top layers:
2 packets of Marie biscuits or any plain tea biscuits
Optional: a light brushing of melted butter to soften the base
For the custard filling:
1 cup Cremora (non-dairy creamer)
2 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar, or to taste
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional garnish:
Grated chocolate, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
The preparation begins with the base layer. Arrange the Marie biscuits neatly in a single layer at the bottom of a lined dish or tray. For added flavor, some people brush a very light layer of melted butter over the biscuits, which also helps prevent them from becoming too soft when the custard is added. Once the base is ready, the focus shifts to the custard.
Making the custard is simple but requires gentle attention. Start by mixing the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a small bowl to combine the dry ingredients. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from scalding. Once the milk is warm, slowly add it to the dry mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth custard. Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens. The moment it coats the back of a spoon is when it is ready. Remove from heat and stir in the Cremora and vanilla extract. These ingredients enrich the custard, giving it its signature creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
Pour the custard over the prepared biscuit base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The thickness of the custard layer can vary depending on personal preference, but a generous layer ensures every slice has a creamy center. Top the custard with a second layer of biscuits, pressing gently to secure them without squishing the custard.
Once assembled, refrigerate the dessert for at least four hours or overnight. Chilling allows the custard to firm up and makes slicing clean squares or rectangles much easier. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a cohesive, satisfying dessert.
The old-school vanilla Cremora custard slice is versatile. While the traditional version relies solely on the custard and biscuits, some people like to add grated chocolate or cocoa powder on top for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Others sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the nostalgic feel. It can be served as-is, or with a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent presentation.
This dessert is ideal for gatherings because it is easy to prepare ahead of time and serves well chilled. It can be cut into small portions for parties or larger slices for a quiet dessert at home. Its simple flavors and comforting texture appeal to both children and adults alike, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Storing the custard slice is straightforward. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The custard maintains its smooth texture, and the biscuits hold their shape without becoming soggy, especially if a light butter layer was applied beforehand. This makes it convenient to prepare in advance for busy days or special occasions.
The charm of the old-school vanilla Cremora custard slice lies in its simplicity and comforting familiarity. It is a no-bake dessert that manages to feel indulgent while remaining approachable. With creamy custard, crisp biscuit layers, and subtle vanilla flavor, it is a dessert that evokes memories while creating new ones. Whether served for a family gathering, a casual afternoon tea, or a nostalgic treat for yourself, it is a dessert that never fails to delight.