Flan Recipe

This Flan Recipe is a delightful treat that combines creamy custard with a luscious caramel topping. Perfect for celebrations, family dinners, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this flan is sure to impress. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it a standout dessert that is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows even novice bakers to create a stunning dessert.
• Versatile: Suitable for any occasion, this flan can be served at parties, gatherings, or as a special family dessert.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of condensed milk and heavy cream creates an irresistibly creamy and delicious custard.
• Beautiful Presentation: The glossy caramel layer on top gives it an elegant look that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious flan, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick cake pan
• Medium heavy saucepan
• Blender
• Fine mesh sieve
• Roasting pan
• Kettle for boiling water

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick cake pan: Ensures easy release of the flan after cooling, making serving simple.
• Blender: Quickly mixes all the custard ingredients while minimizing bubbles, resulting in a smooth texture.

Ingredients

For the Caramel

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water

For the Custard

• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk (preferably La Lechera brand)
• 12 oz can evaporated milk (preferably Carnation brand)
• 1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 1/2 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 5 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Optional Garnish

• Berries to serve (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)

How to Make Flan Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350˚F with a rack in the middle. Boil water in a kettle for the water bath later. Prepare a non-stick cake pan by having it ready for pouring in the caramel.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium heavy saucepan, stir together sugar and water until dissolved. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring for about 3-5 minutes. Once it starts turning golden, swirl the pan frequently until it reaches a cinnamon color—about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and swirl for another 30 seconds until amber-colored.

Step 3: Pour Caramel into Pan

Quickly pour the melted sugar into your round cake pan. Tilt it immediately to spread the caramel evenly across the bottom before it sets. Set aside while you prepare the custard.

Step 4: Make the Custard

In a blender, combine condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and sea salt. Blend for about 1 minute on low speed to avoid excessive foam. Strain this mixture through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth if desired for extra smoothness. Pour it into the cake pan over the caramel layer.

Step 5: Cover and Prepare Water Bath

Cover the cake pan with foil carefully so that it doesn’t touch the custard surface. Place this cake pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it fills halfway up the sides of your cake pan—ensuring no water gets into your flan mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350˚F for about 70-80 minutes. To check doneness, gently jiggle the pan; if there’s only slight movement in the center, it’s ready. If too wobbly, bake an additional 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool at room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight so that it fully sets.

Step 8: Serve

To serve your flan, run a knife around its edges to loosen it from the pan. Invert onto a rimmed platter by holding both together firmly; if needed tap lightly to dislodge it completely. Optionally garnish with berries and drizzle extra caramel sauce over each slice before serving.

Enjoy your homemade flan!

How to Serve Flan Recipe

Flan is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways, enhancing its creamy texture and sweet caramel flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to make your flan stand out.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Sliced strawberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the flan.
• Raspberries: Their vibrant color and slight tanginess complement the rich custard perfectly.
• Blueberries: These juicy berries provide a pop of flavor and a nice visual appeal.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Homemade caramel: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances the flan’s flavor and gives it a beautiful finish.
• Chocolate sauce: For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate sauce can create an indulgent twist to your dessert.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the richness of the flan.
• Flavored whipped cream: Consider infusing your whipped cream with vanilla or citrus zest for added depth.

Serve Chilled

• Refrigerate before serving: Chilling your flan not only improves its texture but also makes it refreshing on warm days.

How to Perfect Flan Recipe

Creating the perfect flan requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for a flawless dessert every time.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps create a smoother custard mixture, ensuring even cooking and texture.
• Don’t over-blend: Blend just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can create bubbles in your flan.
• Monitor the water bath: Ensure there’s enough water in the roasting pan during baking for even cooking; this prevents dryness.
• Cool before refrigerating: Let your flan cool to room temperature before refrigerating it. This helps prevent condensation from forming on top.
• Run a knife around the edges: Before inverting, run a knife around the sides of the pan to help release the flan easily.

Best Side Dishes for Flan Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your flan can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this classic dessert.

1. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings freshness and balances sweetness with its natural flavors.
2. Churros – Crispy churros dusted with sugar pair well with flan for an authentic Latin-inspired meal.
3. Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice offers a tropical twist that pairs nicely with the rich custard.
4. Chocolate Cake – A slice of moist chocolate cake can be an indulgent addition to serve alongside your flan.
5. Mexican Hot Chocolate – The rich spices in hot chocolate contrast beautifully with the smoothness of flan.
6. Coffee or Espresso – A cup of coffee or espresso provides a bitter note that enhances the dessert’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making flan can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure you achieve the perfect dessert. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Caramel Overheating – Overcooking the caramel can lead to a bitter taste. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it turns amber.
• Bold Undermixing Ingredients – Not fully blending your custard can result in a lumpy texture. Make sure to blend until smooth and strain if needed.
• Bold Ignoring Water Bath – Skipping the water bath can lead to uneven cooking. Always use this technique to help maintain consistent temperature while baking.
• Bold Not Cooling Properly – Cutting into flan too soon can ruin its texture. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
• Bold Using Cold Ingredients – Starting with cold eggs or milk can affect the mixing process. Be sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store flan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• If possible, keep it covered with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent drying.

Freezing Flan Recipe

• Flan can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Flan Recipe

• Bold Oven – Reheat individual servings in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Bold Stovetop – Place flan in a pan with a little water and cover, reheating over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding our flan recipe that may help you further.

What is the secret to a smooth Flan Recipe?

The key is blending your mixture well and straining it before pouring into the pan. This removes any lumps and ensures a creamy texture.

How long does Flan take to set?

Flan typically needs at least 6 hours in the refrigerator after baking. For best results, let it chill overnight.

Can I customize my Flan Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like orange zest or coconut milk for different variations. Toppings like chocolate sauce or fresh fruits also enhance the dish.

What should I serve with my Flan Recipe?

Berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries make excellent garnishes. They add freshness and contrast nicely with the creamy texture of flan.

How do I know when my Flan is done baking?

A good test is gently shaking the pan; if there’s just a slight jiggle in the center, it’s ready. If it’s too wobbly, bake for an additional 10 minutes and check again.

Final Thoughts

This flan recipe offers a delightful balance of creaminess and sweetness that makes it irresistible. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors or toppings according to your preferences. Give this easy-to-follow recipe a try for your next gathering; your guests will surely be impressed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Flan Recipe

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade flan, a rich and creamy custard dessert crowned with a glossy caramel topping. This flan recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, celebration, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. With its smooth texture and decadent flavor stemming from sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream, this dessert promises to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Serve it chilled and consider adding fresh berries for an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation. Enjoy this classic dessert that embodies comfort and sophistication in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
• 12 oz can evaporated milk
• 1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 1/2 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 5 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and boil water for the water bath.
2. In a saucepan, mix sugar and water over medium heat until dissolved; cook until golden brown.
3. Quickly pour the caramel into a non-stick cake pan, spreading it evenly before it sets.
4. Blend together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and salt until smooth. Strain if desired.
5. Pour the mixture over the caramel in the pan.
6. Cover with foil and place in a roasting pan filled with hot water halfway up the cake pan's sides.
7. Bake for 70-80 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center; cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least six hours.
8. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a platter.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 80 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 273
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 64mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 134mg