Flan II: The Creamy, Caramelized Classic Dessert

Essential Ingredients

½ cup white sugar (for caramel)
2 cups milk
2 eggs, beaten
2 egg yolks, beaten
⅜ cup white sugar (for custard)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Caramel

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup sugar until it turns golden brown.
Carefully pour the hot caramel into four oven-proof ramekins, tilting them to coat the bottoms evenly. Set aside.

2. Make the Custard

In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat just until boiling.
Slowly whisk hot milk into the beaten eggs and egg yolks, adding a little at a time to prevent curdling.
Stir in ⅜ cup sugar until fully dissolved.
Pour the custard mixture evenly into the prepared ramekins.

3. Bake the Flan

Line a roasting pan with a damp kitchen towel.
Place the ramekins on the towel, inside the roasting pan.
Carefully fill the roasting pan with boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until set.

4. Cool and Serve

Let the flan cool completely.
Run a knife along the edges of each ramekin and invert onto a plate to release the caramel sauce over the flan.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Health Benefits

Good Source of Protein: With 9g of protein per serving, this dessert provides essential nutrients.
Calcium-Rich: Each serving contains 167mg of calcium, supporting bone health.
Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Rich in Healthy Fats: Eggs provide good fats essential for brain function and overall health.

Serving Suggestions

With Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
Topped with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Sprinkle of Cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon enhances the caramelized flavor.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: For a chocolatey twist, drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
Pair with Coffee: Enjoy with espresso or a latte for the perfect after-dinner treat.

Creative Variations

Coconut Flan: Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Vanilla Bean Flan: Add vanilla bean paste or extract for a deeper vanilla flavor.
Coffee Flan: Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee for a mocha-flavored custard.
Pumpkin Spice Flan: Mix in ¼ cup pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin spice for a seasonal version.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Make-Ahead: Flan can be made a day in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing changes the texture and is not recommended.

Pro Tips

Prevent Overcooking: The flan should have a slight jiggle in the center when removed from the oven.
Use a Water Bath: This ensures even baking and prevents the custard from curdling.
Caramel Timing: Watch the caramel closely—it can burn quickly!
Strain the Custard: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the custard mixture before pouring into ramekins.
Cool Before Inverting: Allow flan to fully cool and chill for at least 2 hours before unmolding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make flan in advance?

Yes! Flan tastes even better after chilling for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Why is my flan not setting?

If your flan is too soft, it may need additional baking time. Ensure the water bath remains hot throughout baking.

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Substitute 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and reduce added sugar accordingly.

How do I remove flan from the ramekin without breaking it?

Run a knife around the edges, then gently shake and invert onto a plate.

Can I make this flan in one large dish instead of ramekins?

Absolutely! Use a 9-inch round baking dish and increase the baking time to 50-55 minutes.

This Flan II recipe is a creamy, caramelized delight that’s simple to make and incredibly rewarding. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dessert, its silky-smooth texture and rich flavor make it the perfect treat!