The Caribbean Coconut Flan, known as 'Flan Coco Antillais', is a cherished dessert that transports those who grew up with it back to their childhood. This flan combines the tropical richness of coconut with the sweet, creamy texture of traditional flan. The addition of coconut milk and shredded coconut infuses each bite with a deep, aromatic flavor, while the vanilla and optional cinnamon enhance the overall warmth of the dessert. Topped with a silky layer of caramel, this flan is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
Why You'll Love This: This coconut flan is incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, yet the result is a sophisticated, indulgent dessert. Its creamy texture and rich coconut flavor make it a standout dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, this flan is forgiving and rewarding, making it a perfect dessert to enjoy with family and friends.
Perfect Occasion: This flan is ideal for any celebration, be it a family gathering, a holiday meal, or a casual dinner with friends. It’s particularly suitable for festive occasions like birthdays and anniversaries where you want to offer something sweet and special. Additionally, it’s a great choice for a comforting dessert on a quiet evening at home.
Decoration Tips: To enhance the visual appeal of your Caribbean Coconut Flan, consider garnishing it with toasted coconut flakes or a few edible flowers for a touch of elegance. Drizzling a little extra caramel on top right before serving adds a lovely shine and an extra layer of sweetness. For a festive touch during the holidays, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg can also be lovely.
Ingredients:
- 397 grams of sweetened condensed milk
- 400 grams of coconut milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 bowl of shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon (optional)
- Caramel, for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, eggs, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until thoroughly combined.
- Prepare a caramel by gently heating sugar in a pan until it melts and turns golden brown. Carefully pour the caramel into a round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom.
- Pour the flan mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in a larger baking pan and add hot water to the outer pan to come halfway up the sides of the flan dish (bain-marie method).
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is just set (it should jiggle slightly when shaken).
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan, and invert onto a plate, allowing the caramel to flow over the flan.
Enjoy this delightful Caribbean Coconut Flan, a simple yet exquisite dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table!