Leche Flan (Custard)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Filipino

Leche Flan is a rich, creamy Filipino custard with caramel topping, offering a smooth texture and sweet flavor that delights dessert lovers of all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups evaporated milk
  • 8 egg yolks
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon rind or vanilla
  • 1/2 cup caramel syrup

Instructions

  1. Scald the evaporated milk in a double boiler for 15 minutes.
  2. Beat the egg yolks until well combined.
  3. Add the sugar and flavoring (lemon rind or vanilla) to the egg yolks and mix well.
  4. Pour the mixture into a 1-quart mold, optionally lined with caramel syrup.
  5. Place the mold in a large pan half-filled with water.
  6. Steam or bake the custard for about 1 hour or until it becomes firm.
  7. Allow the flan to cool before removing from the mold.
  8. Chill for several hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or using half-and-half instead of evaporated milk. Make sure to beat the egg yolks gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can create bubbles. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought caramel syrup for convenience. For a twist, infuse the milk with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the flan chilled for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like berries or citrus for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent touch. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it with Strawberry Cookies(No Bake) for a delightful combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the flan in the microwave in short intervals to prevent overheating, or let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Leche Flan (Custard) contains roughly 342 calories, with 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

342 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 13.7g 18% DV
Carbs 44.6g 16% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 13g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 103.2mg 4% DV
Potassium 245.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 456.6mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 75.1mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 23.7mg 26% DV
Vitamin D 1.9mcg 9% DV
Calcium 83.8mg 6% DV
Iron 3.6mg 20% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 add flavors like chocolate or coffee?

Absolutely! You can incorporate melted chocolate or brewed coffee into the custard mixture for a delicious twist. Just adjust the sugar accordingly, as these ingredients can add sweetness. Experimenting with different flavors can make your leche flan unique.

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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