This Cookie Crust Flan, also known as "Flankie," is a delightful combination of two beloved desserts: a rich, buttery cookie base and a smooth, creamy vanilla flan filling. The cookie dough is used to form both the base and the sides of the flan, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the custard filling. The flan is made with real vanilla beans, which infuse the custard with an irresistible aroma and flavor. This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves the comforting taste of cookies combined with the silky texture of flan.
Why You’ll Love This:
You’ll love this Cookie Crust Flan for its unique blend of textures and flavors. The cookie base offers a satisfying crunch, while the vanilla flan is rich and creamy, creating a perfect harmony in every bite. The use of real vanilla beans elevates the custard, making it wonderfully fragrant and full of depth. This dessert is a showstopper that’s as impressive as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.
Perfect Occasion:
This Cookie Crust Flan is ideal for special occasions or any time you want to impress your guests with a unique and indulgent dessert. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties, offering a fun twist on the classic flan. The combination of cookie and custard makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s equally enjoyable as a special treat for yourself. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Decoration Tips:
For a stunning presentation, dust the top of the flan with a light layer of powdered sugar just before serving. You can also drizzle it with caramel sauce or garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and added sweetness. If you want to take it a step further, add some chocolate shavings or a dollop of whipped cream. Serving the flan on a beautiful platter will make it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 100 g softened butter
- 125 g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 140 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 g chocolate chips
For the Flan Filling:
- 3 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 125 g granulated sugar
- 50 g cornstarch (maizena)
- 560 g milk
- 200 g heavy cream
- Seeds from 1 vanilla bean
- 75 g butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing until a dough forms. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the Dough: After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge. Using a 22 cm round cutter, cut out a circle of dough for the base. Cut strips of dough about 6 cm wide to form the sides of the flan in the pan. Press the strips into the sides of your flan mold, ensuring they are well-fitted. Place the prepared mold back in the refrigerator to keep the dough firm.
- Prepare the Flan Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and sugar until pale and well combined. Add the cornstarch and whisk until smooth.In a saucepan, bring the milk, cream, and vanilla seeds to a boil. Gradually pour this hot mixture over the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the custard into the prepared cookie crust. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the flan is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the flan to cool in the mold. Once cooled, refrigerate it overnight to set completely. Before serving, gently remove the flan from the mold and enjoy it chilled.
Enjoy!