Flan II: The Creamy, Caramelized Classic Dessert

Essential Ingredients

• ½ cup white sugar (for caramel)
• 2 cups milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 egg yolks, beaten
• ⅜ cup white sugar (for custard)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Caramel

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup sugar until it turns golden brown.
• Carefully pour the hot caramel into four oven-proof ramekins, tilting them to coat the bottoms evenly. Set aside.

2. Make the Custard

• In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat just until boiling.
• Slowly whisk hot milk into the beaten eggs and egg yolks, adding a little at a time to prevent curdling.
• Stir in ⅜ cup sugar until fully dissolved.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly into the prepared ramekins.

3. Bake the Flan

• Line a roasting pan with a damp kitchen towel.
• Place the ramekins on the towel, inside the roasting pan.
• Carefully fill the roasting pan with boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until set.

4. Cool and Serve

• Let the flan cool completely.
• Run a knife along the edges of each ramekin and invert onto a plate to release the caramel sauce over the flan.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• Good Source of Protein: With 9g of protein per serving, this dessert provides essential nutrients.
• Calcium-Rich: Each serving contains 167mg of calcium, supporting bone health.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Eggs provide good fats essential for brain function and overall health.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Sprinkle of Cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon enhances the caramelized flavor.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: For a chocolatey twist, drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
• Pair with Coffee: Enjoy with espresso or a latte for the perfect after-dinner treat.

Creative Variations

• Coconut Flan: Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Vanilla Bean Flan: Add vanilla bean paste or extract for a deeper vanilla flavor.
• Coffee Flan: Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee for a mocha-flavored custard.
• Pumpkin Spice Flan: Mix in ¼ cup pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin spice for a seasonal version.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Make-Ahead: Flan can be made a day in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing changes the texture and is not recommended.

Pro Tips

• Prevent Overcooking: The flan should have a slight jiggle in the center when removed from the oven.
• Use a Water Bath: This ensures even baking and prevents the custard from curdling.
• Caramel Timing: Watch the caramel closely—it can burn quickly!
• Strain the Custard: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the custard mixture before pouring into ramekins.
• Cool Before Inverting: Allow flan to fully cool and chill for at least 2 hours before unmolding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make flan in advance?

Yes! Flan tastes even better after chilling for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Why is my flan not setting?

If your flan is too soft, it may need additional baking time. Ensure the water bath remains hot throughout baking.

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Substitute 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and reduce added sugar accordingly.

How do I remove flan from the ramekin without breaking it?

Run a knife around the edges, then gently shake and invert onto a plate.

Can I make this flan in one large dish instead of ramekins?

Absolutely! Use a 9-inch round baking dish and increase the baking time to 50-55 minutes.

This Flan II recipe is a creamy, caramelized delight that’s simple to make and incredibly rewarding. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dessert, its silky-smooth texture and rich flavor make it the perfect treat!

Print