Flan Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flan is a smooth and creamy caramel custard dessert with a rich vanilla flavor and a glossy layer of caramel sauce. Popular in Latin America, Spain, and beyond, this elegant treat is both simple and impressive. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep caramel notes, flan is perfect for special occasions or a sweet ending to any meal.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

granulated sugareggs sweetened condensed milkevaporated milkvanilla extractwater (for caramel)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns into a golden caramel. Carefully pour the hot caramel into the bottom of a round baking dish or ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.

In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.

Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Pour the custard mixture over the set caramel in the baking dish.

Place the baking dish in a larger pan and fill the larger pan with hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.

Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the water bath. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a serving plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50–60 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 4–6 hours
Total time: about 5–7 hours

Variations

Infuse the custard with citrus zest for added brightness.

Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Add a splash of rum or espresso to the caramel for depth.

Try making individual flans using ramekins.

storage/reheating

Store flan in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
Serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature before serving.
Flan is not recommended for freezing as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I make flan without sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, but it will alter the flavor and texture. You can use milk and sugar as a substitute.

Why did my flan crack?

Overbaking or cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Bake until just set and cool slowly.

Can I make flan ahead of time?

Absolutely—it’s best when chilled overnight.

How do I prevent bubbles in the flan?

Strain the custard through a sieve before pouring and avoid overmixing.

Why is my caramel hard?

Work quickly once it turns golden. It will harden as it cools but will liquefy again after baking.

What kind of pan is best?

A round glass or metal baking dish works well. Ramekins are great for individual servings.

Do I need a water bath?

Yes, it helps cook the flan gently and evenly, preventing curdling.

Conclusion

Flan is a luxurious yet approachable dessert that never fails to impress. Its silky texture, deep caramel layer, and subtle vanilla flavor create a timeless treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, flan offers the perfect sweet finale.

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