Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan: A Rich and Creamy Delight
Flan is a timeless dessert that has been loved for generations. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it’s no wonder why it continues to be a crowd favorite. Today, we’ll take the classic flan recipe and elevate it with the addition of Ninho powdered milk and melted semi-sweet chocolate. The result is a creamy, luxurious dessert that will leave everyone asking for more.
This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the traditional flan with its delicate custard base, and a twist of chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, this Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan
Before we dive into the detailed steps, let’s take a look at the ingredients needed to prepare this mouth-watering dessert:
For the Batter:
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cans’ worth of whole milk (use the empty can from the condensed milk to measure the milk)
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons of Ninho powdered milk (or any brand of your choice)
- 50 grams (1.75 ounces) of semi-sweet chocolate, melted
For the Caramel:
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s move on to preparing the caramel and the batter.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan
1. Preparing the Caramel
The caramel serves as the delicious base of the flan, adding a sweet, golden layer that complements the creamy custard.
Instructions:
- Melt the sugar: Place 1/4 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Achieve the perfect caramel: Continue cooking the sugar until it turns a golden brown color. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can quickly go from golden to bitter.
- Coat the cups: Once the caramel reaches the desired color, immediately pour it into small oven-safe cups or ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom of each cup evenly.
Tip: Work quickly when handling the caramel, as it hardens fast once removed from heat.
2. Making the Flan Batter
Now that the caramel is set, it’s time to create the creamy flan mixture. The combination of whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, Ninho powdered milk, and melted chocolate adds richness and depth of flavor to the traditional custard base.
Instructions:
- Blend the ingredients: In a blender, combine the 2 cans of whole milk, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 4 tablespoons of Ninho powdered milk, 3 eggs, and the melted semi-sweet chocolate.
- Blend until smooth: Process the mixture until all the ingredients are fully combined, and the batter is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial to ensure a silky texture for your flan.
Tip: Make sure to melt the chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler before adding it to the blender. This helps it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
3. Assembling and Baking the Flan
With the caramel and batter ready, it’s time to put everything together and bake the flan to perfection.
Instructions:
- Pour the batter: Evenly divide the flan batter into the caramel-coated cups.
- Prepare a water bath: Place the cups in a large baking dish, then fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cups. This water bath (also known as a “bain-marie”) ensures the flan cooks evenly and prevents the custard from cracking.
- Bake the flan: Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Bake the flan for approximately 40 minutes, or until the custard is set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few crumbs.
Tip: Keep an eye on the flan during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking. The custard should be firm but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cooling and Serving the Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan
After baking, it’s essential to let the flan cool completely before serving. This allows the custard to firm up and makes it easier to unmold.
Instructions:
- Cool the flan: Once out of the oven, allow the cups to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Unmold the flan: To serve, gently run a knife around the edge of each cup to loosen the flan. Invert the cup onto a plate, and the caramel should flow over the custard, creating a beautiful sauce.
Tip: If the flan sticks to the cup, dip the bottom of the cup in warm water for a few seconds to help release it more easily.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan
Here are a few additional tips to ensure your flan turns out flawlessly:
- Don’t overbeat the eggs: When blending the ingredients, make sure to blend just enough to combine. Overbeating the eggs can cause the flan to have a spongy texture instead of a smooth, creamy one.
- Use good-quality chocolate: The flavor of your flan depends heavily on the chocolate you use. Opt for a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate to achieve a rich, deep chocolate taste.
- Monitor the water bath: Ensure that the water level in the baking dish stays consistent during baking. You may need to add more hot water if it evaporates too quickly.
- Patience is key: Letting the flan chill for a few hours in the refrigerator helps it set properly and enhances the flavors. Resist the temptation to unmold it too soon.
FAQs: Common Questions About Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan
1. Can I substitute Ninho powdered milk with another brand?
Yes, you can substitute Ninho powdered milk with any other brand of powdered milk. However, Ninho is known for its rich and creamy taste, so you may notice a slight difference in flavor if using another brand.
2. How do I store leftover flan?
You can store leftover flan in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
3. Can I make this flan ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the flan a day ahead is ideal, as it allows the custard to firm up and the flavors to meld. Simply keep it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
4. What should I do if my caramel hardens too quickly?
If the caramel hardens before you have a chance to spread it in the cups, simply place the saucepan back on low heat to re-melt the sugar. Be sure to work quickly once it’s melted again.
5. Can I add other flavors to this flan?
Yes! You can experiment with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. You can also try topping the flan with fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra touch.
This rich and indulgent Chocolate Ninho Milk Flan is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its velvety texture, deep chocolate flavor, and sweet caramel sauce, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flan or looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try!