Everybody claims to have the best vanilla slice, but this irresistible dessert’s balance of tangy passionfruit, crackling pastry and rich creaminess might just take the cake (or the slice). It might not be traditional, but it takes the cake in our books.

NEFF CircoTherm® function makes this slice a breeze, baking the pastry evenly until golden brown. Using the NEFF VarioSteam function ensures against overcooking or drying out the pastry. But this recipe’s real zest comes in the form of its delicious passionfruit icing, a perfect counterbalance to a creamy custard centre that in other recipes, can end up slightly too rich.

 

What makes the perfect vanilla slice:

 

  • Use premium butter – being a dish of few ingredients, it pays to make every one count.
  • Use fresh passionfruit. Unlike other fruit, passionfruit is best to each or cook with when the outside is especially wrinkly. You should find the inside to be a deep yellow or light orange.
  • Keep the pastry flat. It’s important not to let it puff up during cooking. To avoid this, use VarioSteam and flatten the pastry gently with the back of spoon if you notice any puffing.

After the vanilla slice is iced and has cooled, refrigerate before serving. Cut into squares and serve cold for a deliciously decadent morning tea or unique dessert option.