Here’s a detailed nougat flan recipe that combines creamy, caramelized flan with the delicate crunch of nougat. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or for treating yourself to a sweet, smooth, and nutty indulgence.
Nougat Flan Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 4 hours
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Flan:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup nougat, chopped into small pieces
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of water. Heat over medium-low, allowing the sugar to dissolve without stirring. Once it starts to bubble, gently swirl the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Caramelize: Let the mixture simmer until it turns a golden amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Pour the Caramel: Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of your flan mold (a round cake pan or Bundt pan works well). Tilt the mold so the caramel coats the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
Step 2: Infuse the Milk with Nougat
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, pour the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, bringing it just to a simmer.
- Add Nougat: Once the milk mixture is hot, add the chopped nougat pieces. Stir until the nougat melts into the milk, creating a smooth, slightly nutty mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Base
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with granulated sugar until smooth and well-combined. Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine with Nougat Milk: Slowly pour the nougat-infused milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking. Continue until all the milk mixture is incorporated, forming a smooth custard base.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Strain the Custard (Optional): For an extra-smooth flan, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps or nougat pieces that didn’t fully melt.
- Pour into Mold: Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the flan mold.
- Prepare a Water Bath: Place the flan mold into a larger baking dish. Carefully pour hot water into the larger dish, surrounding the flan mold up to halfway up its sides. This water bath (bain-marie) helps to cook the flan gently and evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish with the water bath in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still jiggles slightly in the center when gently shaken.
Step 5: Chill and Unmold
- Cool and Chill: Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the flan to set completely.
- Unmold the Flan: To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the flan mold to loosen it. Place a serving plate over the mold, then quickly invert the mold onto the plate. Gently lift the mold off, allowing the caramel sauce to drizzle over the flan.
Serving Suggestions
This nougat flan is rich and creamy, with hints of caramel and the distinct nutty sweetness of nougat. It pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a pop of color and a bit of tartness.
- Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top for added decadence.
- Chopped Nuts or Nougat Shavings: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or nougat shavings over the flan to add texture and visual appeal.
Tips for the Perfect Nougat Flan
- Use Quality Nougat: The nougat is the star of this dish, so choose a high-quality nougat for the best flavor. Classic nougat with almonds or hazelnuts works well.
- Avoid Overbaking: The flan should have a slight wobble in the center when done, as it will continue to set while it cools. Overbaking can result in a less creamy texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flan, reduce the amount of sugar or opt for unsweetened nougat.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a hint of almond or hazelnut extract along with the vanilla to enhance the nutty nougat flavor.
Storing and Making Ahead
Nougat flan can be made up to two days in advance. Once chilled and set, keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Enjoy this rich, nutty, caramel-covered nougat flan, a delightful fusion of classic flan and indulgent nougat!
