Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of France with this exquisite Parisian Flan, a sumptuous dessert that embodies the elegance and simplicity of French baking. This classic tart, often seen in European patisseries, features a silky, vanilla-infused custard filling encased in a buttery, flaky pastry crust. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, the Parisian Flan offers a taste of France’s rich culinary heritage, making every bite a luxurious experience.
Why You’ll Love This:
The Parisian Flan stands out for its creamy texture and delicate balance of flavors. The custard filling, enriched with vanilla, cream, and milk, creates a smooth and indulgent center that perfectly contrasts with the crisp pastry shell. This recipe is particularly special because it allows for customization in terms of height, offering an option to create a taller flan for an even more impressive presentation. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time, making it a perfect choice for dessert aficionados seeking to recreate a classic French patisserie experience at home.
Perfect Occasion:
This Parisian Flan is an ideal dessert for any occasion, from intimate dinner parties to festive celebrations. It’s especially fitting for gatherings where you wish to showcase a sophisticated dessert that is both beautiful to look at and delightful to eat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a holiday meal, or simply want to treat yourself to a refined sweet, this flan will elevate the moment, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
Decoration Tips:
For an elegant presentation, lightly dust the cooled flan with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A dollop of whipped cream on the side or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance its appeal, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve it on a beautiful cake stand or a vintage plate to complement its classic French elegance.
Ingredients for the Pastry:
- 150g all-purpose flour (type 0000)
- A pinch of salt
- 20g sugar
- 75g cold butter, cubed
- 1 room temperature egg
- 1 tablespoon cold water
For the Filling:
- 4 eggs
- 125g sugar
- 50g cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 250ml heavy cream
- 500ml hot milk
Preparation Steps:
- For the pastry, mix flour, sugar, and butter with your fingertips until crumbly. Incorporate the egg and water, pressing the dough against the bowl sides without over-kneading. Chill for at least an hour before rolling out and lining an 18cm tart pan. Freeze the prepared crust.
- For a taller flan, double the filling ingredients and extend baking time to 1.5 hours.
- For the filling, whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla in a bowl. Gradually add hot milk while continuously stirring. Cook over low heat until thickened, then cool completely covered with plastic wrap touching the surface.
- Preheat the oven to 170°C. Fill the crust with the cold custard, level, and bake for 50 minutes. Allow to cool completely before demolding.
Enjoy this Parisian Flan, a dessert that captures the essence of French baking with its creamy filling and flaky crust, offering a slice of Parisian luxury in every bite.
