Mexican Flan
Mexican Flan is a rich, creamy caramel custard with a smooth texture and sweet caramel topping, perfect for dessert gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat eggs with a rotary beater until well blended.
- Add granulated sugar and salt; mix well.
- Beat in two cans of evaporated milk and vanilla or brandy.
- Put light brown sugar in the bottom of a loaf pan.
- Gently pour the custard into the loaf pan over the brown sugar.
- Place the loaf pan in a shallow baking pan with hot water, but not boiling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Do not cover the custard during baking.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan and turn out onto a small platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother flan, blend the mixture in a blender instead of mixing by hand. You can substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly. This recipe can also be adapted with flavors like cinnamon or orange zest for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mexican flan chilled, garnished with fresh fruit like berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It pairs beautifully with Mexican Fried Ice Cream for a delightful dessert experience. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Tortillas Appetizers for a festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the texture from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Flan contains roughly 577 calories, with 0g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 up to two days in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and refrigerated. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it convenient for entertaining.
What if my flan doesn't set?
If your flan doesn’t set, it may need additional baking time. Make sure to test with a knife inserted in the center; it should come out clean. If not, return to the oven for a few more minutes and check again.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar. For a deeper flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and color of the 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).