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Classic Flan Recipe

A close-up of a slice of silky flan, generously drizzled with golden caramel sauce.

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A silky baked custard with a rich caramel topping, this classic flan recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring and let the syrup boil until it turns a deep amber color. Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish or individual ramekins. Swirl the dish to coat the bottom evenly.
  3. Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated baking dish.
  5. Prepare the water bath: Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes for a large dish, or 30-40 minutes for ramekins, until the flan is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
  7. Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool on a wire rack.
  8. Chill the flan in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  9. To unmold, run a thin knife around the edge of the flan. Place a serving platter over the baking dish and carefully invert. The flan should release with the caramel sauce pooling around it.

Notes

  • For a smoother flan, strain the custard mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.
  • To avoid bubbles and cracks, do not overbake the flan.
  • Chilling the flan thoroughly is essential for easy unmolding.

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