Individual Caramel Flan
Individual caramel flan offers a silky, creamy dessert with rich caramel top, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and impressing guests with its elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy 8-inch skillet, cook 1/3 cup sugar over medium heat until it begins to melt, shaking the skillet occasionally to heat evenly. Do not stir.
- Once the sugar starts to melt, reduce heat to low and cook about 5 minutes more until all the sugar is melted and golden, stirring as needed with a wooden spoon.
- Immediately divide the caramelized sugar among 4 (6-oz.) custard cups; tilt the cups to coat the bottoms evenly. Let stand for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, beat 3 eggs and then add 1 1/2 cups milk and 1/3 cup sugar, mixing well.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated cups.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) in a water bath for about 45-50 minutes or until set.
- Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before unmolding and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect caramel, ensure the sugar is heated evenly and avoid stirring until it starts to melt. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce as a substitute. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of salt to the custard mixture for salted caramel flan. This recipe is a great dessert option for special occasions, like pairing with Gina'S Favorite Truffles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the flan directly from the custard cups for an elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. You might also consider serving it alongside a light dessert like Creamy Lemon Dip for a delightful contrast. For a more festive touch, garnish with caramel sauce or toasted nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover caramel flan can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat, as it can become rubbery. For best texture, serve chilled directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Individual Caramel Flan contains roughly 714 calories, with 8g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 this flan ahead of time?
Yes, this flan can be made a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate. It will set nicely overnight, enhancing the flavors. Just remember to unmold it right before serving to keep it fresh and intact.
What should I do if my caramel hardens?
If your caramel hardens before you can use it, you can gently reheat it in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to help it melt again. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk as substitutes for regular milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and richness may vary slightly, but it will still create a delicious flan.
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).