Vanilla Flan with Homemade Caramel
Flan is a classic dessert with a rich, creamy custard base and a layer of soft caramel on top. This recipe for Vanilla Flan with Homemade Caramel is simple yet elegant, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Flan:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Make the Caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar dissolves, stop stirring and let the mixture boil. Watch carefully as it turns into a golden amber color (about 8-10 minutes).
- Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish (or ramekins for individual servings). Tilt the dish to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to harden.
2. Prepare the Flan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a blender, combine the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
3. Bake the Flan:
- Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish (this creates a water bath for even cooking).
- Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Serve:
- To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the dish. Place a serving plate on top and quickly flip it over.
- The caramel will flow over the flan. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips:
- Be careful when making the caramel, as it gets extremely hot.
- For a smoother texture, strain the custard mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.
- Experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of rum to the custard.
Enjoy your creamy, dreamy Vanilla Flan with Homemade Caramel! 🍮
