Flan Caramel Custard(Spain)
A rich Spanish caramel custard with smooth, creamy texture and a luscious caramel topping, perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy classic, indulgent flavors. Suitable for any special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Caramelize 1/2 cup sugar in a skillet until golden brown, stirring constantly.
- While hot, spread the caramel evenly over the bottom of a shallow 2-quart casserole dish and let it cool.
- In a bowl, beat eggs until foamy; gradually add the remaining 1 cup of sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Scald the milk with the cinnamon stick until hot.
- Gradually add hot milk to the egg mixture, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add vanilla and salt to the mixture.
- Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated casserole dish.
- Place the casserole in a larger pan filled with hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine sieve before pouring it into the dish. If you're out of whole milk, you can substitute with 2% milk or a mix of milk and cream for a richer flavor. To enhance the spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using vanilla bean instead of extract.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the flan chilled, inverted onto a plate to reveal the caramel sauce. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or citrus for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also enhance the experience. For a unique twist, try serving alongside Condensed Pudding(Portuguese).
Storage & Reheating
Cool the flan completely at room temperature before refrigerating. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing odors. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the flan in a water bath in the oven at low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flan Caramel Custard(Spain) contains roughly 745 calories, with 10g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make flan ahead of time?
Absolutely! Flan can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly. Just make sure to cover it well in the refrigerator. It’s a great dessert to prepare for gatherings or special occasions.
What if my flan is not set after baking?
If your flan isn’t set after the baking time, it may need additional time in the oven. Check every 10 minutes until it’s firm to the touch. Remember, the flan will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit jiggly when you take it out.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
You can use alternatives like honey or agave syrup, but be aware that they may alter the flavor slightly. If using a sugar substitute, check the conversion ratio on the package, as some are sweeter than regular sugar.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).