Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice: A Citrus Surprise

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something utterly delightful about introducing a burst of citrus into your dessert repertoire. The moment you zest yuzu, that bright, floral scent fills the air, whisking you away to sun-drenched orchards. Inspired by the perfect balance of sweet and tart, this Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice will awaken your taste buds and make your kitchen feel like a five-star patisserie.

After a long week of mundane meals and fast-food runs, I found myself craving something fresh and vibrant. That s when I decided to whip up this luxurious slice that blends rich vanilla with the unique tang of yuzu, creating a treat that s both sophisticated and easy to prepare. Not only does it come together in just under an hour, but it also serves beautifully for gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. So grab your apron, and let s turn that ordinary dessert into something extraordinary!

Why is Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice so special?

Zesty Flavor Explosion: The fresh yuzu juice brings a vibrant tang that elevates the entire dessert experience.
Effortlessly Elegant: With just a few simple ingredients, this slice looks and tastes gourmet, making you feel like a pro chef.
Perfectly Balanced: The combination of sweet vanilla and tart citrus creates an unforgettable flavor harmony that delights every palate.
Unmatched Versatility: Enjoy it as a dessert or a delightful afternoon snack, ideal for any occasion.
Time-Saving Treat: In under an hour, you can craft a remarkable dessert that s sure to impress at your next gathering! When you re looking for more delicious and easy recipes, don t forget to check out my guide on quick desserts for busy weeknights.

Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice Ingredients

For the Base
Unsalted butter 250g, softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Caster sugar ½ cup helps create a sweet foundation for the base.
Vanilla bean paste ½ tsp brings a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with yuzu.
Salt ¼ tsp enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Low protein cake flour 2 cups gives the base a tender crumb, perfect for holding the curd.

For the Yuzu Curd Layer
Eggs 5 large eggs provide structure and creaminess to the curd.
Caster sugar 1 ½ cups sweetens the tangy yuzu, creating a luscious filling.
Yuzu juice 125ml, the star ingredient, infuses the slice with a refreshing citrus zing.
Low protein cake flour ¼ cup thickens the curd for a silky consistency.
Salt ½ tsp to round out the flavor and enhance the yuzu s brightness.

This Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice is sure to become your new favorite dessert!

How to Make Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 170 °C (340 °F) fan forced. Line a 23cm x 33cm (9 x 13 ) slice tin with baking paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter and ½ cup caster sugar until smooth, pale, and creamy. Add ½ tsp vanilla, ¼ tsp salt, and 2 cups low protein cake flour. Continue mixing for about 2 minutes until you form a soft dough.

3. Prepare the Base: Transfer your sweet dough into the lined slice tin. Use your palm to flatten it evenly and pack it firmly. Prick a few holes in the base with a metal skewer, then bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly on the bench top.

4. Mix Yuzu Curd: In the same mixing bowl, combine 5 eggs, 1 ½ cups caster sugar, and 125ml yuzu juice, whisking until well combined. Add ¼ cup low protein cake flour and ½ tsp salt, mixing until a thin curd-like consistency is achieved.

5. Bake Curd Layer: Pour the luscious yuzu mixture over the cooled biscuit base. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is a light golden color. Don t worry if it feels slightly runny; it will set as it cools.

6. Cool and Serve: Allow the slice to cool in the tin before gently lifting and transferring it to a baking rack. Once completely cooled, slice and serve your delightful creation!

Optional: Dust with icing sugar for an elegant finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this citrus treat.

• Whipped Cream: The light, fluffy texture adds a creamy contrast to the zesty slice, making each bite even more indulgent.

• Honey Yogurt: Drizzling a dollop of honey-sweetened yogurt brings a tangy, fresh element that beautifully complements the slice s sweetness.

• Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a burst of freshness and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the yuzu.

• Mint Tea: The herbal notes of a warm cup of mint tea cleanse the palate and enhance the slice s citrus essence, creating a refreshing finish to your meal.

• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dark or white chocolate adds a decadent touch and beautiful contrast to the vibrant yuzu curd.

• Coconut Macaroons: Crunchy and sweet, these delightful treats pair wonderfully, adding a chewy texture that works harmoniously with the slice.

• Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies provide a satisfying texture and nutty flavor, making them a perfect companion with a cup of coffee or tea.

• Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly drink with a lime twist cleanses the palate and enhances the slice s citrus notes, perfect for a refreshing pairing.

• Citrus Sorbet: Serve alongside a scoop of smooth lemon or lime sorbet to amplify the bright citrus flavors of the slice and cool your palate.

Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your delightful treat with these fun twists that ll spark your culinary imagination!

• Coconut Infusion: Substitute half of the butter with coconut oil and add ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair. The richness will be beautifully complemented by the zest of yuzu.

• Berry Burst: Swirl in some fresh or frozen berries, like raspberries or blueberries, into the yuzu curd before baking for a pop of vibrant color and flavor. These tart berries will mix wonderfully with the citrus.

• Gluten-Free: Use an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend instead of low protein cake flour to make this slice gluten-free without sacrificing texture. Your guests will rave about your thoughtful adjustments!

• Honey Sweetness: Replace the caster sugar in the curd with honey for a natural sweetness and floral notes that pair perfectly with yuzu. The honey will also add a slight depth to the flavor profile.

• Matcha Magic: Add 1 tablespoon of matcha powder to the yuzu curd layer to give it a lovely green hue and an earthy flavor twist. The combination will leave your taste buds dancing!

• Citrus Trio: Incorporate a mix of citrus by adding a tablespoon of lemon and orange zest for a diverse range of flavors that create a sunset of tastes in each bite. Your palate will appreciate the complexity!

• Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, a pinch of cayenne pepper mixed into the curd will elevate the dish with a surprising warmth, balancing the sweet and tart beautifully.

• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds before pouring the yuzu mixture over the base. They provide delightful texture and flavor contrasts to the soft curd layer.

Now it s time to let your imagination run wild and create the version that speaks to you! Enjoy the delicious journey!

Make Ahead Options

These Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slices are ideal for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeks! You can prepare the biscuit base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake it as directed, allow it to cool, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The yuzu curd can also be made ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply pour the yuzu mixture over the chilled base and bake as instructed. This way, you ll have a delightful dessert that feels just as fresh and vibrant as when you first made it!

How to Store and Freeze Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice

Fridge: Store the slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and zesty.

Freezer: Cut the slice into portions, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature to restore its lovely texture.

Serving Tip: For the best experience, bring the slice to room temperature after thawing to enjoy the full flavor of the yuzu curd.

Expert Tips for Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother mixture and a fluffier texture in the slice.
• Whisking Technique: When mixing the base and curd, use a whisk to incorporate air, resulting in a lighter texture. Avoid overmixing once the flour is added to prevent toughness.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for the golden top early to avoid overbaking the yuzu layer.
• Cooling Tips: Allow the slice to cool completely in the tin before cutting. This helps it set properly, preventing it from being too runny or messy when sliced.
• Substitutions Caution: While you can use lemon or lime juice instead of yuzu in a pinch, the unique flavor of yuzu is what makes this slice truly special.

Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice Recipe FAQs

What is yuzu, and how do I choose ripe yuzu?
Yuzu is an aromatic citrus fruit that boasts a unique flavor profile reminiscent of lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin. When selecting ripe yuzu, look for firm, slightly bumpy skin that is bright yellow or green. Avoid any fruit that has dark spots or feels overly soft, as this may indicate overripeness. Fresh yuzu is usually available at specialty grocery stores or Asian markets.

How should I store Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice?
Absolutely! Store the slice in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain the vibrant flavors and prevents it from drying out. Just make sure it s well-wrapped to avoid absorbing other odors from the fridge!

Can I freeze Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice?
Very! To freeze, cut your slice into desired portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They will stay delicious for up to 2 months! To enjoy later, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat at a low temperature in the oven to restore that lovely texture.

What if my yuzu curd seems too runny after baking?
Don t fret! If your yuzu curd feels slightly runny when you take it out of the oven, it s normal. Allow the slice to cool completely as it continues to set. If it s still too soft after cooling, a brief return to a low oven can help firm it up. Remember, patience is key!

Are there any dietary considerations for the Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice?
If you have dietary restrictions, there are some alternatives to consider. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the low protein cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture. Additionally, if you have a citrus allergy, consider using pureed applesauce or another fruit puree as a substitute, though it will change the flavor profile significantly.

Can I use lemon or lime instead of yuzu juice?
Absolutely! While yuzu has a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with lemon or lime juice in a pinch. However, for that special zing that yuzu provides, I highly recommend using it when possible. Just adjust the sugar to balance out the tartness from these substitutes, as they can be more acidic than yuzu!

These Caramelised Yuzu and Vanilla Slice Recipe FAQs should help you create the best version of this delightful treat!