Venezuelan Quesillo
Venezuelan Quesillo is a creamy caramel flan with rich custard flavors and a smooth caramel topping, perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Caramelize the sugar and pour it into the small dish to form a caramel layer.
- Beat together eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the caramel in the dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F, covered with foil.
- Uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Remove from oven and refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve with small cups of strong black coffee.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, you can make your own by simmering regular milk with sugar until thickened. Be sure to let the quesillo cool completely before refrigerating, as this helps it set properly. Consider using a larger dish if you want a thinner layer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quesillo chilled, drizzled with additional caramel sauce if desired. It pairs beautifully with small cups of strong black coffee, enhancing the dessert's sweetness. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Honey Cinnamon Apples for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venezuelan Quesillo contains roughly 867 calories, with 11g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.
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 a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute the evaporated milk with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut milk, though this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What can I do if the caramel hardens?
If the caramel hardens before you pour in the mixture, you can gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of water until it softens again. Make sure to pour the batter in quickly to avoid further hardening.
How can I tell when the quesillo is done baking?
The quesillo is done when it is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, ensuring it doesn't overbake.
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).