Silky Vanilla Flan – The Perfect Creamy Custard Dessert

Indulge in the smoothest, creamiest dessert with this Silky Vanilla Flan! With its velvety custard base and decadent caramel topping, this flan is the perfect dessert to impress your guests or simply treat yourself. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, this classic dessert is a must-try for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the caramel:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

For the custard:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel
   In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil. Let it cook for several minutes until it turns into a golden caramel. Be careful not to let it burn. Pour the caramel into the bottom of a round baking dish and swirl to coat evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
2. Make the Custard
   In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Set Up for Baking
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the caramel-coated baking dish inside a larger baking pan. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the baking dish. Fill the larger pan with hot water, about halfway up the sides of the flan dish, to create a water bath. This ensures even baking and a smooth texture.
4. Bake the Flan
   Bake the flan for about 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The flan should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
5. Cool and Chill
   Remove the flan from the water bath and allow it to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let it set and develop its flavors. When you’re ready to serve, run a knife along the edges to loosen the flan, then flip it onto a serving plate. The caramel will create a beautiful, sweet sauce over the custard.

Why You’ll Love This Silky Vanilla Flan

• Luxuriously Creamy: The smooth custard texture is what makes this flan irresistible, melting in your mouth with every bite.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The rich sweetness of the caramel topping perfectly complements the mild, vanilla-flavored custard.
• Versatile and Elegant: Whether it’s a special occasion or an everyday treat, this dessert always feels elegant and impressive.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Silky Vanilla Flan

• Caramel Consistency: Watch the caramel closely while it’s cooking. It should be golden, not dark brown, to avoid a burnt taste.
• Water Bath: The water bath is essential for even cooking. Be sure the water level reaches about halfway up the sides of the flan dish for the best results.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the flan to chill completely to set properly. The longer it chills, the better the texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Silky Vanilla Flan is a dessert that combines elegance, simplicity, and deliciousness. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich caramel topping make it a truly indulgent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy recipe will help you create a perfect flan every time. Treat yourself and your guests to this mouthwatering dessert today!