Vanilla Flan is a timeless dessert that graces tables around the world with its creamy texture, silky smoothness, and subtle sweetness. Its simple combination of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla essence creates a custard that is both rich and light, satisfying sweet cravings without overwhelming the palate. This dessert is often associated with celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a treat to end a meal on a sweet note.

The beauty of Vanilla Flan lies in its simplicity and elegance. While it’s easy to prepare with pantry staples, the result is a luxurious dessert that feels special. Whether served plain or with a drizzle of caramel sauce, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, Vanilla Flan is a must-have addition to your repertoire.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Custard:

• Eggs: 3
• Sugar: ⅓ cup
• Salt: ¼ tsp
• Milk: 1 cup
• Vanilla essence: 1 tsp
• Oil: For greasing the mold

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings and Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 180 kcal
• Macronutrients (per serving):
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fat: 7 g

Steps to Make Classic Vanilla Flan

1. Prepare the Mold

• Lightly grease a round or rectangular mold with a small amount of oil to ensure easy removal of the flan once cooked.

2. Make the Custard Mixture

• In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them gently.
• Add the sugar and salt, whisking until fully dissolved.
• Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to combine.
• Add the vanilla essence and stir well to incorporate.

3. Strain the Mixture

• To ensure a silky-smooth texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve into the prepared mold. This step removes any bits of egg that might cause lumps.

4. Prepare the Water Bath

• Place the mold into a larger baking dish. Add hot water to the larger dish, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan mold. This water bath, or bain-marie, ensures even cooking and prevents the custard from curdling.

5. Bake the Flan

• Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
• Carefully transfer the baking dish with the water bath to the oven.
• Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

6. Cool the Flan

• Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
• Once cooled, cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

7. Unmold and Serve

• To unmold, run a thin knife around the edges of the flan. Place a plate over the mold, invert it, and gently shake to release the flan onto the plate.
• Serve as is or garnish with fresh fruit, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added flair.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Vanilla Flan has stood the test of time due to its universal appeal and versatility. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where custard-like desserts were made with milk and eggs. Over centuries, flan evolved and became a staple dessert in many cultures, particularly in Latin America, Spain, and the Philippines.

The combination of creamy custard and subtle vanilla flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dessert that feels light yet indulgent, making it suitable for any occasion. The simplicity of its ingredients and the ease of preparation mean that anyone can enjoy the satisfaction of creating this classic treat from scratch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

FAQs

1. Can I make flan ahead of time?
Yes, Vanilla Flan can be made up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it covered in the refrigerator and unmold it just before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk for a unique flavor twist.

3. How do I know when the flan is done?
The flan is ready when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. Overcooking can cause a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on it as it nears the end of the baking time.

4. Can I add caramel to this recipe?
Yes! For a classic caramel flan, melt sugar until golden and pour it into the bottom of the mold before adding the custard mixture.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Flan

1. Temperature Control: Use lukewarm milk to prevent scrambling the eggs when combining the ingredients.
2. Strain the Mixture: Straining the custard ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
3. Use a Water Bath: This gentle cooking method prevents the custard from curdling and ensures even baking.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the flan to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before unmolding for the best texture.
5. Customize the Flavor: Experiment with citrus zest, almond extract, or a splash of rum for a personalized twist.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store the flan in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Flan is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Flan is served cold, so reheating is not necessary.

Conclusion

Vanilla Flan is more than just a dessert—it’s a culinary experience that brings a touch of elegance to any table. Its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and versatility make it a timeless favorite across cultures and generations. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a simple weeknight treat, flan’s charm lies in its ability to turn everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

What makes this recipe truly special is its accessibility. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious and indulgent. The addition of vanilla essence elevates the flavor, while the silky custard offers a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Beyond its simplicity, Vanilla Flan is a reminder of how food can connect us to tradition and family. It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, bringing joy and comfort to those who share it. So take the time to make this classic dessert, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something timeless and delicious. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition worth savoring.