Fletcher's Flan: A Decadent Delight
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that's both incredibly rich and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than Fletcher's Flan! This recipe delivers a creamy, caramel-topped custard that's guaranteed to impress. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a flawless flan every time.
What Makes Fletcher's Flan Special?
Fletcher's Flan isn't your average flan recipe. We've tweaked the classic recipe to achieve a silky smooth texture and an intensely rich caramel flavor. This recipe focuses on simplicity and achieving perfection in the basics. Forget complicated techniques and obscure ingredients; this recipe prioritizes using high-quality, readily available ingredients to produce an exceptional outcome.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
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For the Custard:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Caramel:
- Prepare your ramekins: Lightly grease six 6-ounce ramekins or one 9-inch pie dish. This will prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Create the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Do not stir! Let the mixture come to a boil, swirling the pan occasionally. Continue cooking until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour and set: Carefully pour the hot caramel into the prepared ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.
Making the Custard:
- Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until light and frothy. This helps incorporate air for a lighter flan.
- Combine the milk: Gradually whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk until well combined.
- Add the flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour and bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the ramekins.
- Bain-marie magic: Place the ramekins in a larger baking dish. Pour enough hot water into the baking dish to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This creates a water bath, which prevents cracking and ensures even cooking.
- Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flan to fully set and the flavors to meld.
Serving and Enjoying Fletcher's Flan:
- Unmold carefully: Run a thin knife or spatula around the edges of the ramekins to loosen the flan. Invert onto serving plates. If using a pie dish, simply slice and serve.
- Garnish (optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
- Savor the moment: Fletcher's Flan is best enjoyed chilled. The creamy custard and rich caramel will create a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Tips for Flan Perfection:
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry and rubbery flan. Check for doneness by gently shaking the ramekin; the center should still be slightly jiggly.
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will produce a smoother, richer custard.
- Patience is key: Allow the flan to cool and chill completely before unmolding to prevent cracking.
This recipe for Fletcher's Flan is your key to creating a truly special dessert. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results! Happy baking!