Flan Recipe

This Flan Recipe is a delightful treat that brings the rich flavors of Spain and Latin America right to your kitchen. With its smooth custard base and luscious caramel topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this flan will impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of condensed milk and heavy cream creates an indulgent taste that melts in your mouth.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it upside down to reveal the beautiful caramel layer, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the day before to save time on busy occasions and allow the flavors to develop.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this amazing flan recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick 9-inch round cake pan
• Medium heavy saucepan
• Blender
• Fine mesh sieve (optional)
• Large roasting pan
• Kettle for boiling water

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick Cake Pan: Prevents the flan from sticking, ensuring easy release after baking.
• Blender: Creates a smooth custard by thoroughly mixing all ingredients without introducing excess air.
• Fine Mesh Sieve: Helps strain out any bubbles for a velvety texture in the final product.
• Large Roasting Pan: Holds the water bath that ensures even cooking of the flan.

Ingredients

To create this delicious flan, gather these simple ingredients:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 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
• Berries to serve (strawberries, raspberries or blueberries, optional for garnish)

How to Make Flan Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Place a rack in the middle and boil a kettle of water for the water bath. Have your non-stick cake pan ready for the caramel.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium heavy saucepan, combine sugar and water. Stir until dissolved. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring, which takes about 3–5 minutes. Once you see a golden color, swirl the pan frequently until it’s cinnamon-colored (about 1–2 minutes). Remove from heat and continue swirling until it turns amber.

Step 3: Pour Caramel into Pan

Immediately pour the melted sugar into your prepared cake pan. Quickly tilt the pan to spread the caramel evenly over the bottom before it sets. Be careful as the pan will be hot!

Step 4: Make the Custard

In a blender, add condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and salt. Blend on low speed for about 1 minute to minimize foam. Strain through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth if desired. Pour over the caramel layer in your cake pan.

Step 5: Cover with Foil

Cover your cake pan with foil carefully so that it does not touch the custard layer.

Step 6: Prepare Water Bath

Place the covered cake pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it’s halfway up the sides of the cake pan without getting inside.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 70–80 minutes. When done, jiggle gently; there should be a slight stiffness in the center. If too jiggly, bake an additional 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight.

Step 8: Serve

Run a knife around the edges of the pan before inverting onto a rimmed platter. If necessary, tap gently until dislodged. Garnish with berries if desired and drizzle extra caramel sauce over each slice as you serve!

How to Serve Flan Recipe

Serving flan is an art that enhances its indulgent experience. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a casual family dinner, presenting this creamy dessert in delightful ways will impress your guests and elevate the meal.

Garnish with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Bright red berries add a pop of color and a fresh taste.
• Raspberries: Their tartness complements the sweetness of the flan beautifully.
• Blueberries: Small and sweet, they make a lovely visual contrast against the caramel.

Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce

• Homemade Caramel: A rich homemade caramel adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Store-bought Sauce: For convenience, store-bought caramel can save time while still being delicious.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Cream: A dollop of whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that balances the creamy custard.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an interesting twist.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Espresso: The bitterness of espresso pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of flan.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can offer a calming end to your meal.

Create a Flan Parfait

• Layered Dessert: Serve small portions of flan in glasses, alternating with layers of fruit or crushed cookies for added texture.

Offer Chocolate Sauce

• Rich Chocolate Drizzle: A chocolate sauce adds decadence and contrasts nicely with the caramel flavor.

How to Perfect Flan Recipe

Perfecting your flan involves attention to detail to achieve that smooth, creamy texture. Here are some tips to ensure your flan turns out beautifully every time:

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps in blending the mixture smoothly without creating bubbles.
• Strain the Mixture: Straining through cheesecloth removes any lumps and creates a silky custard.
• Control Baking Temperature: Bake at a consistent low temperature to prevent curdling and ensure even cooking.
• Keep the Water Bath Steady: Adding hot water ensures gentle cooking during baking, which prevents cracks on the surface.
• Chill Properly: Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results; this allows flavors to meld and sets the custard perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Flan Recipe

Flan serves as a delightful dessert but pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement flan well:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your dessert.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies provide a chewy texture contrasting with the creamy flan.
3. Pineapple Salsa: The tropical flavors brighten up your meal while offering a refreshing taste.
4. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats pair perfectly, echoing the sweet notes in flan.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti makes for an excellent dipping companion alongside your flan.
6. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: These crispy pastries are delightful when paired with rich chocolate, enhancing your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a flan can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can impact your dessert’s success. Here are mistakes to avoid while preparing your Flan Recipe.

• Overcooking the Caramel – If the caramel turns too dark, it can become bitter. Watch it closely and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches a light amber color.
• Skipping the Water Bath – Not using a water bath may lead to uneven cooking. This method helps maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring a smooth custard.
• Using Cold Eggs – If your eggs are cold, they may not blend well into the mixture. Always use room temperature eggs for a creamier texture.
• Not Straining the Mixture – Skipping the straining process can leave you with lumps in your flan. Strain the custard for a silky smooth finish.
• Insufficient Cooling Time – Rushing to serve can lead to a runny flan. Allow it to cool completely and chill for at least 6 hours to set properly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• Flan will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Flan Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Frozen flan can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Flan Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on low power in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan with hot water over low heat, warming gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Flan?

Flan is a creamy custard dessert topped with caramel sauce. It’s popular in many Latin American countries and is known for its smooth texture.

How do I make my Flan Recipe less sweet?

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of condensed milk or add more evaporated milk to balance flavors.

Can I customize my Flan Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like coconut, chocolate, or citrus zest. Berries also make great toppings for added freshness.

How do I prevent bubbles in my Flan?

To minimize bubbles, blend your ingredients at a low speed and strain the mixture before pouring it into the pan.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Flan recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with various flavors and toppings to suit any occasion. Try making this delightful dessert and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

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: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of this classic Flan Recipe, a beloved dessert that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain and Latin America to your table. With its velvety custard base and luscious caramel topping, this flan is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat after dinner, it impresses with every bite. Follow our simple steps to create an unforgettable dessert that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 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 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 5 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Boil water for a water bath.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water for caramel; cook until golden.
3. Pour caramel into a non-stick cake pan; let set.
4. Blend all custard ingredients until smooth; pour over caramel.
5. Cover with foil and place in a roasting pan filled halfway with hot water.
6. Bake for 70–80 minutes. Cool before refrigerating overnight.
7. Invert onto a platter and serve with fresh berries or extra caramel.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 120mg