Flan(Cuban Dessert)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: Cuban

A smooth, caramel-flavored Cuban dessert with rich custard and a decadent caramel topping, perfect for gatherings and satisfying sweet cravings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Take 4 tablespoons of sugar with a few drops of water and heat in a loaf pan until dark brown or almost burnt to make caramel.
  2. Mix evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  3. Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-lined loaf pan.
  4. Place the loaf pan in another baking dish with water covering the bottom to create a water bath.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until set.
  6. Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smooth flan, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the evaporated milk with sweetened condensed milk. Use a dark, heavy-bottomed pan for caramel to prevent burning. If you're in a pinch, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making your own. This flan pairs beautifully with Cream Cheese Rugalach for a delightful dessert spread.

Serving Suggestions

Flan can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh berries for added flavor. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, serve alongside Olivier Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the flan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until just warm. Avoid reheating the entire flan at once to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Flan(Cuban Dessert) contains roughly 452 calories, with 5g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

452 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 4.2g 5% DV
Carbs 71.1g 26% DV
Fiber 2.7g 9% DV
Sugar 6.9g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 667mg 29% DV
Potassium 549.5mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 154.9mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 22.2mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 162.1mg 12% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit 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 use different types of milk for this flan?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of milk, such as whole milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture and flavor. For a lighter version, consider using almond or coconut milk, though this will change the taste significantly.

How do I know when the flan is done baking?

The flan is done when it is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when the flan is fully cooked. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a rubbery texture.

Can I make this flan in advance?

Absolutely! Flan can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it chill overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

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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