Classic Spanish Flan

Classic Spanish Flan: A Sweet Escape into Dessert Bliss

Spanish Flan, a beloved classic in the world of desserts, offers a creamy texture and a rich caramel flavor that delights with every spoonful. This recipe takes you through a straightforward process to recreate this traditional delight in your own kitchen. So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-time flan maker, this guide is your ticket to a perfectly silky and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

For the Custard:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect environment for baking the flan.
2. Making the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, gently melt the sugar until it achieves a golden-brown caramel hue. Remember, stirring is not necessary as it might cause the sugar to crystallize.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour the molten caramel into a 9-inch round glass baking dish. Swirl to coat the bottom evenly. Allow the caramel to cool and harden, setting the stage for your custard.
4. Custard Time: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble: Gently pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel base in your baking dish.
6. Bake with Care: Place the filled baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish. This water bath will help cook the flan evenly, preventing the edges from burning. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the center sets but retains a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
7. Cooling Phase: After baking, remove the flan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, for the best flavor and texture, refrigerate it for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
8. Serve and Enjoy: To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it, then invert the dish onto a plate. This lets the beautifully amber caramel sauce cascade over the creamy custard. Slice, serve, and watch it disappear!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Classic Spanish Flan is not just a treat for the taste buds but also brings a comforting end to any meal. Serve it as a luxurious after-dinner dessert, or enjoy a slice as a sweet reward at the end of a long day.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Additional Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8

This Classic Spanish Flan is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural journey through taste, texture, and tradition. Perfect for gatherings or as a special weekend treat, it promises to transport your senses to the heart of Spain. Enjoy the making as much as the eating! Bon appétit!

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