Master the art of French patisserie with this simple yet exquisite crustless vanilla flan recipe. It boasts a velvety smooth texture and a rich vanilla flavor that makes it a pure delight for any dessert lover. This foolproof recipe ensures that even those new to baking can achieve perfect results every time, making it a fantastic choice for both novices and experienced bakers alike.
Why You’ll Love This This crustless vanilla flan is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying with its creamy consistency and deep vanilla essence. Using whole vanilla beans enhances the flavor, setting this flan apart from its counterparts. It’s a comforting dessert that’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a formal dinner party or a casual family meal.
Perfect Occasion This flan is ideal for a relaxed weekend dessert, a sweet ending to a dinner party, or a special treat for celebrations like birthdays and holidays. It’s also perfect for taking along to potlucks and picnics because it’s easy to transport and always popular with a crowd.
Decoration Tips
- Dust the top lightly with powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving for a touch of elegance.
- Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 liter of milk
- 100g cornstarch
- 4 eggs
- 100g sugar, divided
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Prepare the Vanilla Milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk with half of the sugar, the vanilla sugar, and the split vanilla bean. Bring just to a boil, then remove from heat and let the flavors infuse.
- Mix Eggs and Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, cornstarch, and the remaining sugar until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
- Combine and Cook: Remove the vanilla bean from the milk. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens substantially. Be vigilant to prevent lumps; whisk or blend if necessary.
- Bake the Flan: Pour the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 35 minutes. The flan should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the flan to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. This step is crucial for the flan to fully set and develop its flavors.
Enjoy! Slice and serve this heavenly crustless vanilla flan as a luxurious treat that’s sure to impress with its simplicity and divine flavor. It’s a timeless classic that will become a go-to in your dessert repertoire!
