Description
This authentic Venezuelan Flan recipe features a smooth, creamy caramel custard dessert made with sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and eggs. Baked in a water bath for perfect texture, this classic Latin American dessert is elegantly simple and naturally gluten-free, perfect for a delightful treat any time.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Flan
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar while stirring constantly until it forms a smooth, golden caramel. Immediately pour the caramel into a round 8-inch cake pan or flan mold, tilting the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to allow the caramel to harden.
- Prepare the Flan Mixture: In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, ensuring a silky custard base.
- Assemble the Flan: Pour the blended custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the pan. Place the flan pan into a larger baking dish.
- Create a Water Bath: Carefully fill the outer baking dish with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the flan pan. This water bath ensures gentle, even cooking and prevents cracking.
- Bake the Flan: Transfer the assembly to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50–60 minutes, until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly at the center.
- Cool Down: Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool completely in the water bath to stabilize the texture.
- Chill: Refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: To serve, run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert the flan onto a plate. Optionally garnish with berries or mint for a fresh touch.
Notes
- For added flavor, incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the flan mixture before blending.
- Traditional Venezuelan flan is served plain to highlight its smooth, creamy texture, but garnishing with fresh berries or mint can enhance presentation.
