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Get The Product!There’s something magical about the moment you take a fork to a perfectly set flan, the silky caramel glistening like liquid gold. The Best Spanish Flan is a dessert that captures your senses, with its creamy texture melting in your mouth and that sweet, slightly burnt caramel dancing on your taste buds. Just one bite, and you might find yourself transported to a bustling Spanish café, where every spoonful feels like a warm hug from an old friend.
Growing up, flan was more than just dessert; it was the grand finale of every family gathering. My abuela would whip up her famous recipe, and we’d all sit on the patio, waiting in eager anticipation while the sun dipped below the horizon. Every spoonful was met with smiles and laughter, making it the highlight of our evenings together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Spanish flan is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
- Its luscious flavor profile balances sweetness with caramel’s rich depth
- Visually stunning, it makes an elegant centerpiece for any gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday feast or a Tuesday night treat
I still remember the first time I made this flan for my friends; their delighted reactions were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds heavenly creaminess and sweetness; don’t skimp on quality for the best flavor.
Evaporated Milk: It gives the flan a smooth texture; using full-fat for richness is highly recommended.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are key; they help bind everything together and create that signature silky consistency.
Sugar: Granulated sugar forms the beautiful caramel topping; keep an eye on it while it melts to avoid burning.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; skip imitation for an authentic taste experience.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a round baking dish ready by lightly greasing it with butter or nonstick spray.
Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until it’s golden brown. Swirl gently but don’t stir! Once bubbly and amber-colored, quickly pour into your prepared dish.
Blend the Custard Mixture: In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and any additional flavorings you desire. Blend until smooth and frothy.
Combine Everything Together: Gently pour the custard mixture over the caramel layer in your baking dish—this will create those lovely layers!
Bake in Water Bath: Place your filled baking dish in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until set—a knife should come out clean from the center.
Cool and Serve: Let your flan cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours (or overnight). When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate. Enjoy that glorious caramel cascade!
You Must Know
- The Best Spanish Flan is creamy, rich, and melts in your mouth
- Remember to let it cool completely before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully
- The caramel sauce adds a sweet touch that contrasts perfectly with the flan’s rich texture
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the caramel first; pour it into the mold while it’s still warm. Then blend the egg mixture and pour it over the caramel before baking in a water bath for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Try adding vanilla bean or citrus zest for a unique twist. You can also use coconut milk for a tropical version of The Best Spanish Flan.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve, let it come to room temperature or gently reheat it in a microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect flan every time, avoid over-mixing the egg mixture; this keeps it smooth
- Always bake in a water bath to prevent cracking and ensure even cooking
- For a stunning presentation, use individual ramekins or dessert cups instead of one large dish
Sharing flan at my family gatherings always brings smiles and compliments—it’s like magic on a plate! I once made it for a potluck, and everyone begged for the recipe; that’s when I knew I had mastered The Best Spanish Flan.
FAQ
What is The Best Spanish Flan made of?
The Best Spanish Flan consists of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla for flavor.
How do I know when my flan is done?
Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your flan is ready!
Can I make flan ahead of time?
Yes! Flan can be made up to two days ahead for best flavor development.
The Best Spanish Flan
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
The Best Spanish Flan is a luscious dessert that delights with its creamy texture and rich caramel topping. This traditional treat transports you straight to a sun-drenched Spanish café with every silky bite. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it’s an effortless showstopper that will impress your guests and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a round baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until golden brown. Pour the caramel into the prepared dish.
- Blend sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the caramel layer.
- Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until set.
- Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
