Marie Biscuit Milk Tart Squares (No-Bake!)
There are few desserts as comforting and nostalgic as a classic milk tart. The soft custard, gentle sweetness, and familiar hint of cinnamon make it a favorite across generations. When you take those well-loved flavors and transform them into no-bake squares made with Marie biscuits, you get a dessert that is both easy and deeply satisfying. Marie biscuit milk tart squares offer the same familiar taste of traditional milk tart but in a form that is simple to prepare, easy to serve, and perfect for warm days when turning on the oven feels unnecessary.
This dessert has become popular among home bakers because of its no-bake convenience and the guaranteed delicious results. The creamy custard layer sits beautifully on a sturdy biscuit base, giving every bite a combination of smoothness and gentle crunch. The classic aroma of cinnamon sprinkled on top adds a comforting touch that ties everything together. It is the type of treat that works for family gatherings, afternoon tea, special events, or simply as a quiet indulgence after dinner.
Marie biscuits make an excellent base for this dessert because of their light sweetness and subtle flavor. They are easy to crush and, when combined with melted butter, form a crust that holds its shape while remaining pleasantly tender. Unlike heavier cookies, Marie biscuits contribute to a balanced flavor that lets the custard shine. Their crumb structure is ideal for absorbing just the right amount of moisture from the custard without losing their texture.
The custard layer is what transforms these squares from a simple biscuit slice into a true milk tart dessert. Milk tart custard is known for having a delicate, creamy texture with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. While some versions are thickened with flour, others rely solely on cornstarch for a smoother finish. The goal is to achieve a custard that is silky but firm enough to cut into neat squares once chilled. This no-bake approach allows the custard to set in the refrigerator instead of the oven, making the recipe quick and reliable.
Here are the ingredients typically used to make a batch of Marie biscuit milk tart squares:
For the base:
2 packets Marie biscuits, crushed
1/2 cup melted butter
For the filling:
4 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 eggs
Cinnamon for sprinkling on top
These ingredients work together to create a dessert that feels homemade and comforting, with flavors that remain faithful to traditional milk tart.
Start with the biscuit base by crushing the Marie biscuits into fine crumbs. This can be done using a food processor or by placing the biscuits in a bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and mix until the texture resembles damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined square or rectangular dish. A spoon or the bottom of a glass helps achieve an even surface. Once pressed, place the base in the refrigerator to firm up while preparing the custard.
The custard is made by heating the milk gently in a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, flour, and eggs until smooth. This mixture will serve as the thickening base. When the milk is warm, slowly pour a portion of it into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This step helps prevent the eggs from scrambling. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. The custard will begin to thicken, and patience is key during this stage. Continue stirring until the custard reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency.
When the custard thickens, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. These additions create a smooth finish and add to the rich aroma. Allow the custard to cool slightly—not fully—before pouring it over the chilled biscuit base. A warm custard spreads more easily and settles into an even layer. Once the custard is poured, use a spatula to smooth the top.
Sprinkle cinnamon generously over the surface. This simple finishing touch is essential to the milk tart experience. The cinnamon adds warmth, fragrance, and visual appeal, letting anyone who sees it know exactly what flavors await. Place the dish in the refrigerator and allow the dessert to chill for at least four hours. Overnight chilling works best because it ensures that the squares set firmly and slice cleanly.
When the dessert is thoroughly chilled, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into squares with a sharp knife. Wiping the knife between cuts helps keep the edges clean. The result is a batch of neat, creamy squares with a soft custard top and a crumbly, buttery biscuit base. Each square holds the comforting flavor of milk tart in a more portable, shareable form.
These squares are versatile and can be adjusted to personal preference. Some variations include adding a touch of almond extract, using cinnamon sugar instead of plain cinnamon, or mixing crushed Marie biscuits into the custard for added texture. Others like to add a thin layer of whipped cream on top before sprinkling cinnamon to create a lighter finish.
The dessert also stores well, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time. Keep the squares refrigerated in an airtight container. They maintain their texture for several days and remain just as delicious on the second or third day. Because the dessert is served cold, it is especially refreshing during warm weather.
Marie biscuit milk tart squares capture the nostalgic comfort of traditional milk tart while offering the convenience of a no-bake method. With a buttery base, a creamy custard, and the familiar scent of cinnamon, these squares bring both simplicity and indulgence together. Whether served at celebrations, shared with friends, or enjoyed quietly at home, they provide a familiar taste that feels timeless and always welcome.