Classic Mexican Flan
A classic Mexican vanilla custard dessert topped with caramel.
Relish in this classic Mexican dessert with a luscious vanilla custard topped with a smooth caramel glaze. This flan is indulgent yet straightforward to prepare, providing a wonderful make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
Full Ingredient List
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Flan
Tools and Equipment
- 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
Ingredients
| Quantity | Name | Preparation Notes | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| ¾ cup | granulated sugar | For caramel | |
| 5 | large eggs | ||
| 1 (14-ounce) can | sweetened condensed milk | ||
| 1 (12-ounce) can | evaporated milk | ||
| 1 tablespoon | vanilla extract |
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Step 2: Add sugar and ¼ cup of water to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves. Increase to medium-high heat and cook until the mixture is golden. (Tips: Watch closely to prevent burning.)
- Step 3: Pour the hot caramel into an 8-inch round cake pan, tilting to coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden. (Tips: Caramel is extremely hot; handle with care.)
- Step 4: Combine eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend on low until combined. (Tips: Let bubbles settle before proceeding.)
- Step 5: Place the cake pan in a roasting pan. Pour the milk mixture over the caramel. Fill the roasting pan with 1 inch of hot water. (Tips: This water bath ensures even cooking.)
- Step 6: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set yet still wobbly. Cool on a wire rack. (Tips: Flan will continue to set as it cools.)
- Step 7: To serve, run a knife around the edge and invert onto a serving dish. Chill if desired before serving. (Tips: For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 338 kcal
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 50g
Additional Information
Notes: Ensure you keep a close watch on the caramel as it cooks to prevent burning.
Background: Flan has its origins in the Roman Empire and became a notable dessert in Spain before it was introduced to Mexico, where it is a beloved dessert today.
Geographic Region: Latin America
Seasonality: Year-round
Occasion: Suitable for family gatherings and festive events.
Recommended Pairings
- Serve with a light dessert wine or Mexican coffee.