This Flan Recipe is a delightful creamy dessert that will impress your guests at any gathering. With its smooth custard base and rich caramel topping, this flan is a perfect finish to any meal. Not only is it suitable for celebrations, but it’s also simple enough for a weeknight treat. The best part? It’s incredibly satisfying to make, and no one has to know just how easy it truly is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor – The combination of sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream creates a luscious flavor profile that melts in your mouth.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this flan fits right in.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with common pantry staples, you can whip this up without any hassle.
• Impressive Presentation – The beautiful caramel layer adds an elegant touch, making it look like you spent hours preparing it.
• Customizable Garnish – Add fresh berries or nuts for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your flan, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you need to prepare.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick cake pan (9-inch by 2-inch)
• Medium heavy saucepan
• Blender
• Fine mesh sieve (optional)
• Roasting pan
• Kettle

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick cake pan – Ensures easy release of the flan after baking, preventing any breakage.
• Blender – Smoothly mixes the custard ingredients together for a velvety texture.
• Roasting pan – Holds the water bath necessary for evenly cooking the flan without over-baking.

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Ingredients

For this Classic Flan recipe, you will need the following 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 with a rack positioned in the middle. Boil water in a kettle for the water bath you will use later. Prepare your non-stick cake pan so it’s ready when the caramel is done.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium heavy saucepan:
1. Combine sugar and water until fully dissolved.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring for about 3-5 minutes.
3. Once golden, swirl the pan frequently until it reaches a cinnamon color (about 1-2 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and continue swirling as it turns amber.

Immediately pour the melted sugar into your round cake pan and quickly tilt it to cover the bottom before it sets.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a blender:
1. Add condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and salt.
2. Blend on low speed for about one minute to avoid too much foam.
3. Strain through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth if desired.
4. Pour this mixture into your prepared cake pan over the caramel layer.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Cover the cake pan with foil ensuring it’s not touching the custard top. Set this inside a large roasting pan.

Step 5: Create Water Bath

Place the roasting pan in your oven:
1. Pour hot water from the kettle into it halfway up the sides of your cake pan.
2. Ensure no water gets inside your cake pan.

Step 6: Bake Your Flan

Bake at 350˚F for about 70-80 minutes:
1. Jolt the pan; if there’s a stiff jiggle in center, it’s done.
2. If too wobbly, bake an additional 10 minutes.
3. Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating covered with plastic wrap for at least six hours or overnight.

Step 7: Serve Your Flan

Run a knife around edges of your pan to loosen:
1. Place a rimmed platter over top and invert carefully.
2. If needed, tap gently until flan releases.
3. Garnish with fresh berries if desired and drizzle with extra caramel sauce before slicing.

Enjoy serving this delightful Flan Recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Flan Recipe

Serving flan is a delightful experience that can enhance its creamy texture and rich flavor. Here are some creative ways to serve this classic dessert to impress your guests.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and arrange them around the flan for a pop of color and freshness.
• Raspberries: Scatter raspberries on top for a tart contrast to the sweet custard.
• Blueberries: Add blueberries to give a delightful burst of flavor with each bite.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Homemade Caramel: Make an extra batch of caramel sauce to drizzle over each slice before serving, adding richness.
• Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of sweetened whipped cream on the side for added creaminess.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider infusing whipped cream with vanilla or citrus zest for an extra flavor dimension.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Espresso: Pairing flan with a shot of espresso complements its sweetness and enhances the overall experience.
• Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea can balance the richness of flan beautifully.

How to Perfect Flan Recipe

Creating the perfect flan requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for a flawless custard dessert.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy are at room temperature for smoother blending and better texture.
• Strain the Mixture: Straining removes bubbles, resulting in a silkier custard that sets beautifully.
• Monitor Caramel Color: Keep an eye on the caramel as it cooks; it should be amber-colored but not burnt for optimal flavor.
• Avoid Overbaking: Check the flan for doneness by jiggling it slightly; it should have a gentle wobble without being liquidy.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the flan overnight for best results, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Flan Recipe

Flan pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options you might consider serving alongside your flan.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light medley of seasonal fruits balances the richness of flan perfectly.
2. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice dish complements the caramel notes in flan nicely.
3. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse adds indulgence, creating an exquisite dessert duo.
4. Churros: Serve warm churros dusted in cinnamon sugar as a delicious dipping option alongside flan.
5. Pineapple Salsa: A tangy pineapple salsa adds brightness and contrast against the creamy custard.
6. Sweet Plantains: Caramelized sweet plantains offer a tasty accompaniment that enhances the dessert’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a flan can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong pan: A non-stick cake pan is ideal for this recipe. Avoid using a regular metal or glass pan, as the flan may stick and be difficult to remove.
• Not monitoring the caramel: Caramel can burn quickly. Stir gently and watch it closely to achieve that perfect golden-brown color without bitterness.
• Skipping the water bath: The water bath helps the flan cook evenly and prevents cracking. Always remember to pour hot water into the roasting pan.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your flan while baking. If it jiggles too much in the center, it needs more time, but overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Serving too soon: Flan needs time to chill and set properly in the fridge. Resist the temptation to cut into it right after baking; overnight is best!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store flan in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Flan Recipe

• Wrap flan tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Flan Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds at medium power.
• Stovetop: Place flan gently in a skillet with a little water and cover, heating on low until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Flan Recipe?

A flan recipe typically includes ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar, creating a smooth custard topped with caramel sauce.

How do I make my Flan Recipe more flavorful?

You can add citrus zest or spices like cinnamon to enhance flavor without altering the classic taste.

Can I use other flavors in my Flan Recipe?

Definitely! Consider adding chocolate or coffee for variations that offer exciting new tastes.

What should I serve with my Flan Recipe?

Flan pairs well with fresh berries or whipped cream for added texture and flavor.

How long does it take to make this Flan Recipe?

The total time is approximately 8 hours including prep, cooking, and chilling time before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Flan recipe delivers creamy goodness topped with rich caramel, making it an irresistible dessert choice. Its versatility allows for customization, so feel free to experiment with different flavors or garnishes. We encourage you to try this easy yet impressive dessert at your next gathering!

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Classic Flan

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Indulge in the creamy delight of this Flan Recipe, a classic dessert that is sure to impress your guests! With its velvety custard base and golden caramel topping, this flan offers a rich flavor profile that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight treat—this easy-to-make dessert requires simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, the impressive presentation of this elegant dish makes it look like you spent hours preparing it, yet it comes together with minimal effort. Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an added touch.

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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
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a non-stick cake pan.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water, boil until golden, then pour into the cake pan to create caramel.
3. Blend sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and salt until smooth. Pour over the caramel.
4. Cover the cake pan with foil and place inside a roasting pan filled with hot water halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 70-80 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least six hours or overnight.
7. To serve, run a knife around the edges, invert onto a platter, and garnish as desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending. Strain the mixture for an ultra-smooth custard. Don’t skip the water bath; it’s crucial for even cooking.