Leche Flan

Prep: 15 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Filipino

Leche Flan is a rich, creamy caramel custard with a smooth texture and luscious caramel topping, perfect for special occasions or as a delightful dessert for any sweet tooth.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/8 cup water
  • 1 cup heavy coconut milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon rind
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 c. white sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine brown sugar and water in a saucepan; stir until caramelized.
  2. Pour half of the caramel into the mold.
  3. Beat eggs slightly and add to the caramel mixture.
  4. Add remaining ingredients and cook over low heat.
  5. Strain through a cloth into the mold.
  6. Place the mold in a pan of water and continue heating for about 1 1/2 hours.
  7. Allow to cool thoroughly before unmolding.

Tips & Substitutions

Ensure your caramel is perfectly amber before pouring it into the mold to prevent bitterness. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half of the heavy coconut milk with almond milk. For a unique twist, add a hint of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile. Always strain the mixture to achieve a smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

Leche flan is best served chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of grated lemon rind for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Leche flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before unmolding.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Leche Flan contains roughly 488 calories, with 5g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value).

488 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 5.6g 7% DV
Carbs 106.3g 39% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 73g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 174.9mg 8% DV
Potassium 262mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 109.9mg 37% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 54mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 3.9mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 2% DV
Calcium 181.8mg 14% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% 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 make leche flan ahead of time?

Yes, leche flan can be made a day ahead of serving. Just ensure it is well-covered and refrigerated. The flavors will develop even more, making it taste richer and more delicious.

What can I use instead of coconut milk?

If you prefer a different flavor or are allergic to coconut, you can substitute the coconut milk with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.

Why did my flan not set properly?

If your flan did not set, it could be due to undercooking or not enough eggs. Ensure your mixture is cooked until a knife inserted comes out clean. Adjusting the cooking time can help achieve the perfect consistency.

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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