Blackberry Custard Squares

Blackberry Custard Squares Recipe - Canadian Delight

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful fusion of tangy blackberries and smooth custard with our Blackberry Custard Squares. This dessert is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe promises to guide you through creating a dessert that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

History

The origins of custard-based desserts can be traced back to ancient times, but the combination with blackberries is a relatively modern innovation. Blackberries have been foraged and enjoyed for centuries, and their incorporation into desserts became popular as sugar became more widely available. This recipe is a celebration of both the timeless appeal of custard and the seasonal delight of blackberries, bringing them together in a dish that's both nostalgic and novel.

Ingredients

CRUST

2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
0.5 cup toasted chopped almonds or walnuts
1 tbsp granulated sugar
0.33 cup melted butter

CUSTARD LAYER

0.67 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 cups milk
3 egg yolks
3.5 tsp vanilla
1.5 envelopes unflavored gelatin
0.33 cup cold water

Blackberry LAYER

How to prepare

Serve this dessert with whole fresh blackberries in the summer or, in winter, puree frozen blackberries to serve as a sauce.
Crust: In a bowl, combine crumbs, almonds, and sugar; mix in butter.
Pat the mixture into an 8-inch (2-liter) square glass baking dish.
Bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let it cool on a rack.
Custard Layer: Meanwhile, in a heavy saucepan, stir sugar with cornstarch; whisk in milk and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, for 5 to 10 minutes or until slightly thickened and smooth.
In a bowl, whisk egg yolks; stir in half of the hot milk mixture.
Return the egg yolk mixture to the pan; cook, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes or until thickened.
Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
Stir gelatin into cold water; let it stand for 1 minute, then stir half of the mixture into the custard.
Cover and set the remaining gelatin mixture aside for the blackberry layer.
Lay plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard; let it cool.
Pour the custard over the crust and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
Blackberry Layer: Press blackberries through a food mill or fine sieve to mash, remove seeds, and make about 1 cup (250 ml).
Transfer to a small saucepan; add sugar and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and the reserved gelatin mixture until the gelatin is dissolved.
Chill until the consistency is similar to raw egg whites.
Whip cream; fold in the blackberry mixture.
Spread the mixture over the custard; cover and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours.
(The dessert can be covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days.)
Cut into squares to serve with forks.
To toast almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until golden.

Variations

Consider experimenting with different berries or a mix of berries for the top layer, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a different taste profile. A gluten-free crust can be made using almond flour or gluten-free biscuit crumbs for those with dietary restrictions.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Blackberry Custard Squares turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- For the crust, use a food processor to achieve fine crumbs, and ensure your butter is melted for an even mix.

- When cooking the custard, constant stirring is key to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

- Bloom the gelatin properly in cold water to ensure it dissolves completely in the custard and blackberry layers.

- For the blackberry layer, straining the puree is crucial to remove seeds and achieve a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these squares chilled, garnished with fresh blackberries or a drizzle of blackberry sauce for an extra touch of elegance. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the crust to a golden brown ensures a crispy base, while gentle heating and constant stirring of the custard help achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Proper whipping and folding of the cream into the blackberry mixture are crucial for a light, airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Almond milk or coconut milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free option, and agar-agar can be used instead of gelatin for a vegetarian-friendly dessert.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Simply prepare as directed, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve individual squares on plates with a mint leaf garnish. Alternatively, layer the dessert in clear glasses for a visually appealing parfait.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Blackberry Custard Squares with a sparkling white wine or a light, fruity rosé to complement the dessert's sweet and tangy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Blackberry Custard Squares contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively indulgent choice, perfect for special occasions or as a treat in a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Blackberry Custard Squares contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar used in the crust, custard, and blackberry layers, providing the dessert with its delightful sweetness.

Fats

This dessert contains about 15 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being the butter in the crust and the whipping cream in the blackberry layer. Using high-quality butter and cream not only contributes to the dessert's rich flavor but also its creamy texture.

Proteins

Each serving of Blackberry Custard Squares offers around 5 grams of protein, mainly from the egg yolks in the custard layer and the milk. These ingredients contribute to the custard's rich texture and nutritional value.

Vitamins and minerals

Blackberries are a rich source of Vitamin C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Milk and eggs contribute calcium and Vitamin D, making this dessert not just delicious but also a source of essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (butter, milk, whipping cream), eggs, and nuts (walnuts). Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Blackberry Custard Squares offer a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy, with a moderate calorie count and a good mix of nutrients. Enjoy this dessert as part of a balanced diet, and savor the combination of flavors and textures.

Summary

Blackberry Custard Squares are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of blackberries with the creamy richness of custard, all atop a crunchy, nutty crust. With detailed cooking tips and nutritional information provided, you can enjoy making and indulging in this dessert while understanding its place in a balanced diet. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet treat, these squares are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished picking a fresh batch of juicy blackberries from the bushes in our backyard. As I stood there, holding the basket full of plump, ripe berries, I couldn't help but think about all the possibilities they held.

I had always been passionate about cooking, and over the years, I had collected countless recipes from various places and people. But something about those blackberries sparked a new idea in my mind. I wanted to create something special, something that would capture the essence of summer in every bite.

I remembered an old family recipe for custard squares that my grandmother used to make. It was a simple yet delicious dessert that always brought back fond memories of my childhood. I decided to put a twist on that recipe and incorporate the fresh blackberries into it.

I quickly got to work in the kitchen, combining the ingredients for the custard filling and carefully layering it over a buttery shortbread crust. Then, I scattered the blackberries on top, pressing them gently into the custard. As I popped the pan into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the pan out of the oven and was greeted by the most incredible aroma. The custard had set perfectly, and the blackberries had burst open, releasing their sweet juices into the creamy filling. I couldn't wait to try a bite.

I let the custard squares cool for a few minutes before cutting into them. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that warm summer day in the backyard, picking blackberries under the sun. The combination of the creamy custard and the tart blackberries was absolutely divine.

I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. I shared the custard squares with my family, and they were an instant hit. Everyone raved about how delicious they were, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had created something so delightful from scratch.

From that day on, the blackberry custard squares became a staple in our household. I would make them whenever we had guests over or simply as a special treat for my loved ones. The recipe quickly became one of my most requested dishes, and I was always more than happy to oblige.

Over the years, I have continued to refine and perfect the recipe for blackberry custard squares. I have added a touch of cinnamon to the crust and experimented with different types of berries for a fun twist. But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful summer day when I discovered the recipe for blackberry custard squares, I am filled with gratitude. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and it brings me so much joy to share my creations with others.

I may have learned this recipe from a simple idea sparked by a basket of fresh blackberries, but it has since become a cherished tradition in our family. And for that, I am eternally grateful.