Flan
Flan, a beloved dessert in many cultures, is celebrated for its silky texture and rich flavor. This creamy custard, topped with a luscious caramel sauce, makes for a perfect ending to any meal. Whether served at a festive gathering or a cozy dinner, flan is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the world of flan and discover how to make this delightful treat at home!
Ingredients
– 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice), flan contains approximately:
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Sugar: 30g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns golden brown, stirring constantly.
3. Quickly pour the caramel into a round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Add the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture over the set caramel in the baking dish.
7. Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with water halfway up the sides of the flan dish (water bath).
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until the flan is set.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Additionally, brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor in the caramel.
Serving and Pairings
Flan pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s also delicious alongside a cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store flan covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for a few seconds, but serve chilled for the best taste. Flan can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid burning the sugar when making caramel.
– Ensure the oven is preheated to get an even bake.
– Do not skip the water bath, as it helps prevent cracking.
– Use room temperature eggs for a smoother custard.
– Cool flan completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.
– Make sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the custard mixture.
– Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange.
– Allow flan to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for easier unmolding.
– Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch.
FAQs
What is flan made of?
Flan is primarily made from eggs, milk, and sugar, creating a creamy custard base. It has a layer of caramel on top, adding sweetness and flavor.
How long does flan last in the fridge?
Flan can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when properly covered. It’s best served cold.
Can I make flan ahead of time?
Yes, flan can be made a day ahead. It actually tastes better when allowed to chill overnight, letting the flavors meld.
Is flan gluten-free?
Yes, traditional flan is gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients.
Can I add flavors to my flan?
Absolutely! You can infuse flavors such as chocolate, coffee, or citrus by adding them to the milk mixture before baking.
Conclusion
Flan is a timeless dessert that captivates with its smooth texture and sweet caramel. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy making and sharing this classic treat with friends and family!
Flan
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar for caramel
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown; pour into a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk to the egg mixture; whisk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled with water (water bath).
- Bake for 60 minutes or until set.
- Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate to serve.