Why Make This Recipe
Flan is a classic dessert loved by many for its creamy texture and sweet caramel flavor. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that can be served on various occasions, from family gatherings to special celebrations. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, making flan from scratch allows you to adjust the sweetness and flavor to your liking.
How to Make Flan
Ingredients:
- Granulated Sugar (for caramel, 200g): 200g
- Eggs: 3
- Egg Yolks: 2
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 397g): 397g
- Evaporated Milk (1 can, 410g): 410g
- Vanilla Extract: 5ml
Directions:
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Caramelize Sugar: In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it. Once ready, carefully pour the caramel into a round baking dish, swirling it around to coat the bottom.
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Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Prepare Water Bath: Place the caramel-coated baking dish in a larger baking pan. Pour the egg mixture into the dish. Then, fill the outer pan with hot water, making sure it goes halfway up the sides of the flan dish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the flan for about 60 minutes, or until it is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
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Cool & Chill: Let the flan cool down at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
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Serve: To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan. Invert it onto a plate, and watch as the beautiful caramel sauce flows down the sides.
How to Serve Flan
Flan can be served on its own or garnished with fresh fruit, such as berries or slices of citrus. A dollop of whipped cream can also enhance its flavor. It’s a versatile dessert that pairs well with coffee or tea, making it perfect for any occasion.
How to Store Flan
Store leftover flan in the refrigerator. It’s best kept in an airtight container. The flan will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer to enjoy it later, just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any other odors from the fridge.
Tips to Make Flan
- Make sure not to overcook the caramel, as burnt sugar can give a bitter taste.
- Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to avoid too many bubbles, which can affect the texture.
- Use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature of the flan; it should reach around 85°C (185°F) to be fully set.
Variation
You can add flavors to your flan by incorporating ingredients like orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist, or some cocoa powder for a chocolate flan. Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut for added depth.
FAQs
1. Can I make flan ahead of time?
Yes, flan can be made a day in advance. It actually tastes better when chilled overnight.
2. What should I do if my flan cracks while baking?
Cracking usually happens if the flan is overbaked or the temperature is too high. Make sure to bake it slowly in a water bath for even cooking.
3. Can I freeze flan?
While it’s not recommended to freeze flan, if you must, wrap it tightly and it should last up to a month in the freezer. Just be aware that the texture may change once thawed.