The Best Spanish Flan Recipe: Creamy Caramel Delight

Name: The Best Spanish Flan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 cup granulated sugar (divided: ¾ cup for caramel, ¼ cup for custard); 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Published: April 30, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This flan is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for impressing guests without stress
The rich flavor profile combines caramel’s sweetness with creamy vanilla essence
Its stunning presentation makes it the star of any dessert table
Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion

I’ll never forget the first time I served The Best Spanish Flan to my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, followed by an enthusiastic chorus of “More, please!”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for achieving that smooth custard texture; farm-fresh is always best.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds richness and sweetness; don’t skimp on quality here for maximum flavor.
Evaporated Milk: Creates a lighter texture than cream; use full-fat for a silkier result.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for both the caramel topping and the custard; measure carefully!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances sweetness and depth; opt for high-quality extract whenever possible.
Pinch of Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness beautifully; don’t skip it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Create the Caramel: Start by heating sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts into golden caramel. Stir gently to avoid burning but keep an eye on it—it can go from perfect to burnt faster than you can say “flan”.

Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. You want everything combined without bubbles—think calm ocean rather than raging storm.

Combine Caramel and Custard: Pour the prepared caramel into your baking dish first—that glorious golden layer will create magic! Then gently pour the custard mixture over it so that they don’t mix (we want layers here).

Bake It Low and Slow: Place your filled baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water (a water bath helps cook evenly). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until set—the edges should be firm while the center quivers slightly like it’s shy.

Cool It Down : Once baked, allow it to cool at room temperature before transferring to the fridge. Chill for at least four hours—this step is crucial! Patience is key here because chilling lets those flavors meld beautifully.

Serve with Style : To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan before flipping onto a plate. Watch as that beautiful caramel cascades down like liquid gold—your guests won’t know what hit them!

Enjoying The Best Spanish Flan isn’t just about savoring dessert; it’s about indulging in tradition and sharing moments of joy. Each spoonful takes you on an adventure through flavors and memories that last long after dessert has been cleared away. So gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

You Must Know

The Best Spanish Flan is all about patience; let it chill properly for that perfect creamy texture
Also, a splash of vanilla adds depth, while a pinch of salt enhances the sweetness beautifully
Don’t rush the caramel; it’s the star of the show!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your caramel first; it needs cooling time. While it sets, whisk the eggs and milk mixture to achieve a smooth blend before pouring it into the caramel-coated dish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap traditional vanilla for orange zest or coconut milk for a tropical twist. These changes can elevate The Best Spanish Flan into something uniquely yours and delightful!

Storing & Reheating

Store your flan in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to five days. If reheating, do so gently in a microwave to avoid losing its creamy consistency.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that luscious texture in The Best Spanish Flan, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
Avoid over-whisking to keep it smooth and light
Always use fresh eggs for richer flavor and creaminess

The first time I made The Best Spanish Flan, my family devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! Their compliments turned my kitchen into a joyful celebration.

FAQ

What makes The Best Spanish Flan special?

It’s the rich caramel flavor combined with a silky custard that makes it irresistible.

Can I make The Best Spanish Flan ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after chilling overnight in the refrigerator.

How do I know when my flan is done baking?

Insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, your flan is ready!

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📖 Recipe Card