Introduction
Indulge in the creamy richness of homemade flan with this easy-to-follow recipe. Flan, a beloved dessert in many cultures, combines silky custard with a caramelized syrup for a decadent treat. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a delightful dessert, this recipe promises to deliver smooth, velvety flan that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 1 liter milk
- 2 teaspoons caramelized liquid vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle to allow even baking.
2. Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, crack and beat the 6 large eggs for about 30 seconds until they are well combined.
- Add 150 g of sugar gradually while continuing to beat the eggs until the mixture becomes smooth and pale in color.
- Slowly pour in the 1 liter of milk, ensuring it’s at room temperature to prevent curdling, and add 2 teaspoons of caramelized liquid vanilla extract.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. Avoid overmixing to prevent excess air bubbles.
3. Prepare the Mold
- Take a baking dish or mold of your choice (traditionally a round mold with a hole in the center is used for flan) and generously butter the interior to prevent sticking.
- Carefully pour the prepared flan mixture into the buttered mold.
4. Baking
- Place the filled mold into the preheated oven. Bake at 170°C (340°F) for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the flan is set. To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the flan; it should come out clean when the flan is fully cooked.
5. Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the flan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the mold on a wire rack. Cooling the flan slowly helps it to set and enhances its texture.
- Once cooled, carefully run a knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the flan. Place a serving plate over the mold and invert it quickly and carefully to release the flan onto the plate. The caramelized syrup will flow over the top, creating a beautiful presentation.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of the homemade flan chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Flan
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality milk contribute to the smooth texture and rich flavor of the flan.
- Temperature Control: Ensure the milk is at room temperature before adding it to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gentle mixing prevents air bubbles from forming in the mixture, resulting in a smoother flan.
- Caramelization: For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the sugar slightly longer until it reaches a deep amber color before pouring it into the mold.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of milk for this flan recipe?
A: While whole milk is traditionally used for its richness, you can substitute with low-fat milk or even almond milk for a lighter version. Adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent air bubbles in my flan?
A: To minimize air bubbles, gently stir the mixture and avoid vigorous beating. Straining the mixture through a fine sieve before pouring it into the mold can also help.
Q: Can I make flan ahead of time?
A: Yes, flan can be made ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled for best results.
Q: What can I do if my flan sticks to the mold when unmolding?
A: To ensure easy unmolding, run a thin knife around the edges of the mold before inverting it onto a plate. Alternatively, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in hot water to loosen the caramelized syrup.
Conclusion
Enjoy the luxurious simplicity of homemade flan with this classic recipe. Whether served as a comforting family dessert or as a show-stopping finale to a dinner party, this creamy custard is sure to impress. Follow these steps and tips for a perfect result every time, and savor the velvety texture and rich caramel flavor of this timeless dessert.