This Classic Flan recipe is the epitome of elegance and simplicity, with its smooth, creamy texture, rich caramel topping, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this dessert will impress even the most discerning palates. Perfectly tall, velvety, and bursting with flavor, this flan is a timeless treat that will transport your taste buds to dessert heaven. Let’s create something extraordinary!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Velvety Smooth Texture: The custard is silky, creamy, and melts in your mouth.
- Rich Caramel Flavor: The golden caramel layer adds a deep, sweet contrast to the delicate custard.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Flan tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Custard:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Caramel
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture simmer. Watch carefully as it turns amber in color (about 8–10 minutes). Do not stir during this process—swirl the pan gently if needed.
- Once the caramel reaches a deep golden brown, immediately pour it into the bottom of a round cake pan (9-inch or similar size). Tilt the pan to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.
2. Prepare the Custard
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend or whisk until smooth and fully combined.
3. Assemble the Flan
- Pour the custard mixture slowly over the hardened caramel in the cake pan.
- Place the cake pan inside a larger baking dish or roasting pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the cake pan to create a water bath (bain-marie). This ensures even cooking and prevents curdling.
4. Bake the Flan
- Carefully transfer the pans to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. The flan will continue to set as it cools.
- Remove from the oven and let the flan cool completely in the water bath. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and firm up.
5. Unmold and Serve
- Run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside-down over the pan and quickly flip it over. Gently shake or tap the pan to release the flan.
- The caramel sauce will flow over the top, creating a beautiful glaze.
- Slice and serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves or berries if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries, mango slices, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Drizzle any leftover caramel sauce from the plate onto each slice for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Rush the Caramel: Cook the sugar syrup slowly to avoid burning. The caramel should be a deep amber color for the best flavor.
- Blend Thoroughly: A smooth custard mixture ensures a creamy texture without air bubbles.
- Use a Water Bath: The water bath is essential for gentle, even baking and prevents cracks or curdling.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the flan to chill overnight enhances the flavors and makes it easier to unmold.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Flan is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers bakery-worthy results every time. With its luscious caramel topping, creamy custard, and delicate vanilla notes, it’s a dessert that’s sure to delight everyone who tries it. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this flan is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So grab your ingredients, whip up this velvety masterpiece, and prepare to wow your family and friends. One bite of this tall, creamy, caramel-drenched delight, and you’ll understand why flan is a beloved classic around the world! 🍮