Looking for a deliciously smooth dessert? Try this easy flan recipe that uses just a few basic pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and milk. It's the perfect sweet treat that's simple to make and ideal dessert for beginners.

Tip #1

Low and Slow Caramel: Keep the heat low when making caramel to avoid burning the sugar, which can create bitterness.

Tip #2

Temper Your Eggs: Add the hot milk mixture slowly to the eggs while whisking continuously to ensure your flan is smooth without scrambled eggs.

Tip #3

Chill Thoroughly: For the best texture and flavour, let your flan chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This not only sets the flan but also enhances its creamy texture.

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Easy Flan

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Chilling time: 3 hours

Yield: Two flan in 3-inch ramekins

Ingredients

4 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp water
2/3 cup milk
1 egg

Preparation

Prepare the Caramel:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 tbsp sugar with 1 tbsp water. Cook until the sugar turns a light brown caramel color. Carefully stir in the remaining 1 tbsp of water to thin the caramel slightly, then quickly pour it into two 3-inch ramekins, swirling to coat the bottoms evenly.
Make the Custard:
- Using the same pan, add 2/3 cup of milk and the remaining 2 tbsp of sugar. Heat just until the mixture starts to simmer, then remove from heat to prevent boiling.
Combine Egg and Milk:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg thoroughly. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg, whisking constantly to temper the egg without cooking it.
Strain and Pour:
- Strain the custard mixture through a sieve directly into the caramel-lined ramekins to catch any lumps or egg strands, ensuring a smooth flan. Cover each ramekin tightly with foil.
Bake in a Water Bath:
- Place a paper towel at the bottom of a large pan and set the ramekins on top. Fill the pan with hot water until it reaches two-thirds up the sides of the ramekins to create a gentle cooking environment. Cover the pan with a lid.
Cook:
- Cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the custard is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Chill:
- Allow the flans to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Serve:
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan, then invert onto a plate. Enjoy chilled!