Classic French Custard Tart (Flan Pâtissier): A Silky Smooth Dessert with a Delicate Vanilla Essence

Embark on a culinary journey to France with this Classic French Custard Tart, known traditionally as Flan Pâtissier. This dessert features a luxurious vanilla custard encased in a flaky pastry shell, combining simplicity with elegance. The custard is rich and creamy, flavored deeply with vanilla, and set to perfection, offering a contrast to the light, crisp texture of the pastry.

Why You'll Love This: This Flan Pâtissier is a testament to the beauty of French baking, where less is often more. The rich vanilla custard is both comforting and sophisticated, making each slice a delightful experience. It’s a recipe that celebrates the purity of vanilla and the creamy texture of custard, making it a favorite for all who appreciate refined desserts that aren't overly sweet.

Perfect Occasion: This custard tart is ideal for a range of occasions, from a formal dinner party dessert to a comforting weekend treat. It's perfect for holiday celebrations, especially when you want a dessert that is both impressive and universally appealing. Serve it at gatherings, potlucks, or as a special treat after a family meal.

Decoration Tips:

  • Dust the top with powdered sugar for a subtle sweetness and a snow-like appearance.
  • Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Pair with a light sparkling wine or a cup of espresso to complement the vanilla flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry or shortcrust pastry
  • 5 eggs
  • 250g sugar
  • 75g cornstarch
  • 500ml milk
  • 500ml water
  • Vanilla flavoring: 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped, or 1 teaspoon vanilla powder, or 2-3 tablespoons liquid vanilla
  1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F) and prepare a tart tin by lining it with the pastry. Prick the bottom with a fork and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of the milk to create a slurry.
  4. In a saucepan, combine the remaining milk, water, and vanilla (if using a vanilla bean, add it here). Bring to a simmer.
  5. Remove the vanilla bean (if used) and gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture. Stir in the cornstarch slurry.
  6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a custard.
  7. Pour the custard into the prepared pastry shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden.
  9. Allow the flan to cool completely in the tin before removing and slicing.

Enjoy this Classic French Custard Tart as a sublime expression of traditional French desserts, offering a creamy, luxurious texture and a rich vanilla flavor that's sure to please any dessert aficionado!

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