Easy Flan Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy, Delicious Perfection
Making flan might seem intimidating, but this easy flan recipe proves it's simpler than you think! This recipe focuses on achieving that perfectly smooth, creamy texture and rich caramel flavor without complicated techniques. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this classic dessert!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
- For the Caramel:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- For the Custard:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment You'll Need:
Having the right tools makes the process smoother.
- 9-inch round baking dish: This is crucial for achieving the right consistency and a beautiful presentation.
- Medium saucepan: For making the caramel.
- Whisk: For mixing the custard ingredients thoroughly.
- Large bowl: For combining all custard ingredients.
- Rubber spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Caramel:
- Prepare the caramel: In your medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Do not stir. Swirl the pan occasionally to distribute the heat evenly.
- Cook until golden brown: The sugar will melt and turn into a rich amber color. This takes patience – avoid burning it!
- Carefully pour into baking dish: Immediately pour the hot caramel into the bottom of your 9-inch baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Be careful, as the caramel will be very hot. Set aside to cool slightly.
Making the Custard:
- Whisk together ingredients: In your large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely combined and smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Pour over caramel: Gently pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel in the baking dish.
- Bake in a water bath: Place the baking dish into a larger roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This creates a water bath, ensuring even baking and preventing cracking.
Baking and Cooling:
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the water bath. Once cooled, carefully remove the flan from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
Serving:
- Invert onto a serving plate: Run a thin knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the baking dish and quickly invert it. The flan should slide out beautifully, revealing the glossy caramel.
- Slice and serve: Cut into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Tips for Flan Success:
- Don't overbake: A slightly jiggly center is perfectly normal. Overbaking can lead to a dry flan.
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs help achieve a smoother texture.
- Let it cool completely: This prevents cracking and ensures a cleaner inversion.
- Get creative with toppings: Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or whipped cream for extra flair!
This easy flan recipe is your gateway to creating a delicious and impressive dessert. Enjoy the process and savor the results! Happy baking!
