Boston Cream Custard Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
02 - ¼ teaspoon salt.
03 - ½ cup granulated sugar.
04 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened.
05 - 1 teaspoon baking powder.
06 - 1 cup all-purpose flour.
07 - 2 large eggs.
08 - 2 cups milk.
09 - ½ cup granulated sugar.
10 - ¼ cup cornstarch.
11 - 4 large egg yolks.
12 - 1 cup heavy cream.
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
14 - 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped.
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.

# Instructions:

01 - Switch the oven on to 350°F (175°C). Place parchment paper at the base of an 8x8-inch pan.
02 - Combine softened butter, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, ½ cup sugar, and a teaspoon of vanilla in a mixing bowl. Stir everything together until it's smooth.
03 - Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Pop it into the oven for 20-25 minutes. It's done when a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Let it cool all the way down.
04 - Warm up milk and ½ cup sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar's dissolved and the milk mixture is steamy but not boiling.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the steamy milk mixture, a bit at a time, while constantly whisking. Pour it all back into the saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring all the time, until thick. Once done, remove from heat and mix in 2 tablespoons butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
06 - Spread the custard over the cooled cake. Put it in the fridge to set completely.
07 - Heat cream in a small pot until it just starts to bubble. Take it off the heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before stirring until smooth.
08 - Drizzle the ganache on top of the custard layer. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or until the ganache firms up.
09 - Slice into squares and serve cold.

# Notes:

01 - Treat yourself to these rich, creamy Boston Cream squares with their soft base, velvety filling, and glossy chocolate top. Perfectly sweet for any occasion!