Flan is a classic dessert with a silky-smooth texture and rich caramel flavor that’s sure to impress. This easy recipe simplifies the process, so you can make this elegant dessert right at home with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as stunning as it is delicious!
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Flan Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
- Rich and Creamy: A luscious custard topped with golden caramel.
- No-Fuss Prep: Only 15 minutes of hands-on time before it’s in the oven.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for holidays, dinner parties, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients for Easy Flan
For the Caramel:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Custard:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- 6-inch or 7-inch round baking dish (or ramekins for individual servings)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Roasting pan for water bath
How to Make Easy Flan
Step 1: Make the Caramel
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir gently until dissolved, then stop stirring.
- Let the mixture cook until it turns a golden amber color, swirling the pan occasionally for even cooking.
- Quickly pour the caramel into the baking dish, tilting the dish to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
5. Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
6. Place the dish inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Flan
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
8. Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
9. To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the flan. Invert onto a plate, letting the caramel sauce flow over the top. Slice and serve!
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
- Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert moment.
Tips for the Best Flan
- Don’t Overcook: The flan should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.
- Make Ahead: Flan tastes even better when chilled overnight, so plan ahead for the best results.
- Use a Water Bath: This prevents cracks and ensures the custard cooks evenly.
- Clean Up Caramel Quickly: Soak the caramel saucepan in hot water immediately after use to make cleanup easier.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: While it’s best fresh, flan can be frozen. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use whole milk instead of evaporated milk?
A: Yes, but the texture may be slightly lighter. Evaporated milk gives the flan its creamy richness.
Q2: Can I make flan in individual portions?
A: Absolutely! Use ramekins and reduce the baking time to about 40-45 minutes.
Q3: What if I don’t have a roasting pan?
A: Use any deep baking dish that can hold the flan dish and hot water securely.
Conclusion: An Effortless Elegance
This Easy Flan Recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The rich caramel and creamy custard are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is a guaranteed success.
Did you try this recipe? Share your results with us on social media—we’d love to see your delicious flan!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, caramel-covered treat—you deserve it!
Print
Easy Flan Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Description
Flan is a classic dessert with a silky-smooth texture and rich caramel flavor that’s sure to impress. This easy recipe simplifies the process, so you can make this elegant dessert right at home with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as stunning as it is delicious!
Subscribe to our newsletter for more simple yet show-stopping recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Custard:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir gently until dissolved, then stop stirring.
- Let the mixture cook until it turns a golden amber color, swirling the pan occasionally for even cooking.
- Quickly pour the caramel into the baking dish, tilting the dish to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
5. Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
6. Place the dish inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Flan
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
8. Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
9. To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the flan. Invert onto a plate, letting the caramel sauce flow over the top. Slice and serve!
Notes
- Don’t Overcook: The flan should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.
- Make Ahead: Flan tastes even better when chilled overnight, so plan ahead for the best results.
- Use a Water Bath: This prevents cracks and ensures the custard cooks evenly.
- Clean Up Caramel Quickly: Soak the caramel saucepan in hot water immediately after use to make cleanup easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: American
