Flan (Egg Custard With Sauce)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Mexican

Flan is a creamy, indulgent egg custard dessert topped with a rich caramel sauce. Its smooth texture and sweet vanilla flavor make it a beloved treat across many cultures. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful end to any meal, this dessert will impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (13 oz.) can evaporated milk
  • 1/2 c. fresh milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 c. plus 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

  1. Melt 3/4 cup sugar in a pan until golden brown; let cool.
  2. In a bowl, combine evaporated milk, fresh milk, eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and vanilla; mix well.
  3. Pour the mixture into the cooled caramel-coated pan.
  4. Bake in a water bath at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until set.
  5. Allow to cool, then refrigerate before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother flan, blend the milk and eggs together for a minute before adding the sugar and vanilla. If you prefer a less sweet flan, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup. You can substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version, though it may slightly alter the taste. Ensure that the caramel reaches a golden amber color for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve flan chilled, directly from the refrigerator, for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful end to a meal. It complements Mexican recipes like Chalupas or Vegetable Burritos.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover flan in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid overheating, as it can change the texture. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Flan (Egg Custard With Sauce) contains roughly 164 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value).

164 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 1.9g 2% DV
Carbs 26.5g 10% DV
Fiber 2g 7% DV
Sugar 3.2g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 301.1mg 13% DV
Potassium 250.4mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 41.2mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 21.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 16.8mg 19% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 76mg 6% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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?

Yes, flan can be made a day in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld and enhances its texture. Just ensure it is tightly covered in the refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing other odors.

What can I do if my flan doesn't set?

If your flan doesn’t set, it may need more baking time. Check it after 60 minutes; it should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center. If it’s still too soft, return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.

How can I tell when the flan is done baking?

The flan is done when it has a slight jiggle in the center but is firm around the edges. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the flan is ready. Let it cool before refrigerating to finish setting.

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).

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