Volare's Award-Winning Custard Square

Custard squares: a delectable treat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of New Zealanders for generations. As quintessentially Kiwi as rugby or the silver fern, these sweet delights hold a special place in the culinary landscape of Aotearoa. And at Volare, we've taken the art of crafting custard squares to new heights, earning accolades and loyal fans with our award-winning rendition of this beloved classic.

But what exactly makes custard squares so irresistible, and why are they such a cherished part of New Zealand's food culture?

A Bite of History:

With its roots in France and England, custard-based desserts have been enjoyed for centuries, evolving and adapting as they traveled across continents and cultures.

In New Zealand, custard squares emerged as a cherished sweet treat, blending European influences with local ingredients and flavors. The marriage of creamy custard and buttery pastry must've struck a chord with us Kiwi's, because it's hard to remember a time when the humble custard square wasn't a beloved staple in bakeries and cafes across the country.

Crafting Perfection:

At Volare, we take great pride in the craftsmanship that goes into each and every custard square we make. From the delicate layers of puff pastry to the velvety smoothness of our vanilla bean crème patisserie, every aspect is a dedication to quality and tradition.

It starts with the making of our signature puff pastry using the French method. With just four simple ingredients – flour, salt, butter, and water – we create a pastry that is light, flaky, and utterly irresistible. Over the course of three days, we meticulously fold and layer the dough, building up over 250 delicate layers that form the foundation of our custard squares.

Once the pastry has been perfected, we assemble our custard squares with precision and care. Each layer is carefully laid, each ingredient measured to perfection. From the generous dollop of silky crème patisserie to the zesty lemon icing that crowns the pastry, every element is intentional.

Award-Winning Excellence:

Made with 100% New Zealand butter and infused with the finest vanilla beans, our custard square has been satisfying hungry customers since 2018 and was awarded first place at the Baking Industry Association New Zealand (BIANZ) competition this year.

A Labour of Love:

Crafting the perfect custard square is no small feat – it's a labor of love that requires patience, skill, and dedication (and a small fortune with the price of eggs these days). From the careful preparation of the pastry to the precise assembly and finishing touches, each step in the process is an expression of our commitment to excellence.

Stop by one of our stores and indulge in the irresistible allure of Volare's custard squares and discover why they're a true Kiwi favorite. After all, when it comes to the perfect balance of flavor, quality, and craftsmanship, there's nothing quite like a Volare custard square.