CHEATS VANILLA SLICE

This classic vanilla slice is not only delicious, but has become so much easier with the use of good old vanilla instant pudding! The soft and creamy centre is sandwiched between two layers of crisp buttery puff pastry.

Ingredients:

2 sheets ready rolled puff pastry

2 x 70g packets vanilla instant pudding mix

2 cups (500ml) cream

1 cup milk

2 tsp vanilla extract

Icing

1 1/2 cups icing sugar

2 tsp butter, melted

2 - 3 tbsp warm milk

Method:

• Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F) and grease and line two baking trays with baking paper.

• Place 1 sheet of pastry on each of the trays.

• Place another sheet of baking paper over the pastry, then lay another baking tray on top of that. This stops the pastry from puffing up.

• Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked and golden.

• Allow pastry to completely cool.

• Using an electric mixer, beat the pudding mix, cream, milk and vanilla extract in a bowl for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is thick and smooth.

• Spread the mixture evenly over one of the pastry sheets and then gently press the second pastry sheet on top.

• For the icing, sift the icing sugar into a bowl and stir in the butter and enough milk to make a smooth, spreadable icing. Spread evenly over the pastry.

• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Cut using a serrated knife.

Serves: 9

Prep Time: 15 minutes, plus cooling time (approx. 1 1/2 hours)

Cooking Time: 20 minutes