Discover the rich and creamy goodness of this Classic Vanilla Flan, a traditional dessert beloved for its smooth texture and deep caramel flavor. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion, providing a sweet and satisfying end to any meal. Made using a water bath, or “baño María,” this method ensures a perfectly cooked flan that’s free from bubbles and wonderfully smooth.
Why You’ll Love This
This Vanilla Flan combines the aromatic richness of vanilla with the deep, sweet notes of caramelized sugar. The gentle cooking method ensures that each bite is velvety and luxurious, making it a favorite among dessert aficionados. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to dessert making, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to achieving a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Perfect Occasion
Vanilla Flan is ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a special treat to enjoy after a meal. Its elegant appearance and delicious taste make it perfect for celebrations or as a comforting treat to brighten a regular day. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert, as it needs to be chilled before serving, which makes it very convenient for entertaining.
Decoration Tips
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a touch of color and a slight tartness that complements the sweet caramel.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra layer of richness.
- Mint Leaves: Place a few mint leaves as a garnish for a refreshing element.
- Edible Flowers: Decorate with edible flowers for a sophisticated and beautiful presentation.
- Dusting of Cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon can add a warm, spicy note that pairs wonderfully with vanilla and caramel.
Ingredients
- For the Flan:
- 8 eggs
- 800 cc of milk
- 150 g of sugar
- 10 cc of vanilla extract
- For the Caramel:
- 250 g of sugar
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a saucepan, place half of the sugar and cook over medium heat until melted.
- Add the remaining sugar, stir gently, and continue to cook until the sugar turns an amber color.
- Carefully pour the caramel into a 20 cm diameter mold, ensuring the bottom is evenly covered. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Flan Mixture:
- In another saucepan, heat the milk and sugar until it begins to boil. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually pour in the hot milk mixture, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Bake the Flan:
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Pour the flan mixture into the caramel-lined mold.
- Place the mold in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water up to halfway up the sides of the flan mold to create a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- To serve, carefully invert the flan onto a plate, allowing the caramel to flow over the edges.
Enjoy this Classic Vanilla Flan, a creamy and luxurious dessert that will captivate your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings!
