Best Flan Ever

Caribbean Flan Recipe with Cream Cheese and Vanilla Extract

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Best Flan Ever recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of this classic dessert. Flan, with its creamy texture and caramel topping, has been a favorite across cultures for centuries. This particular recipe elevates the traditional flan by incorporating cream cheese for added richness, creating a dessert that's not only delicious but also remarkably easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this flan recipe promises to impress with its simplicity and elegance.

History

Flan's origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was initially a savory dish. However, as it spread across Europe, particularly in Spain, it evolved into the sweet custard we know today. The Spanish and Portuguese brought flan to the Americas, where it became a staple dessert in many Latin American cuisines. This recipe represents the culmination of centuries of culinary evolution, blending traditional techniques with a modern twist.

Ingredients

1 cup of sugar
6 large eggs
1 (14 oz (397 g)) can of condensed milk
1 (12 oz (340 g)) can of evaporated milk
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 oz (28 g) of cream cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Choose two oven-safe containers, one larger than the other.
The larger container will be used for a water bath, while the smaller one will hold the flan.
Fill the larger container with water, filling it to just under halfway, and place it in the cold oven to heat up while you prepare the caramel and custard.
In a large pan, caramelize the sugar using a wooden spoon until it turns a light golden brown.
While the sugar is still hot, transfer it to the smaller container, swirling it around until the entire bottom is covered. Set it aside.
In a blender, combine the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.
Open the oven and place the small pan with the caramel inside the larger water bath pan.
Carefully pour the custard into the pan, being mindful not to splash it.
Bake for 30–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center passes a toothpick test.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool on a rack.
You may invert the flan onto a large serving dish with a lip, or simply serve it directly from the container you cooked it in.

Variations

Consider adding a twist to your flan with these variations:
Chocolate Flan: Add melted chocolate to the custard mixture for a decadent twist.
Coconut Flan: Substitute coconut milk for evaporated milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
Coffee Flan: Incorporate brewed espresso into the custard mixture for a coffee-infused dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your flan comes out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Caramelize the sugar over medium heat to avoid burning.

- Blend the custard ingredients until smooth to ensure a silky texture.

- Use a water bath (bain-marie) during baking to cook the flan evenly and prevent cracking.

- Let the flan cool completely before inverting it onto a serving dish to maintain its shape.

Serving Suggestions

This flan is best served chilled. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the caramelization of sugar and the use of a water bath for baking. These methods ensure a smooth caramel layer and a custard that's cooked evenly without cracks.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cream cheese isn't your preference, you can substitute it with an equal amount of mascarpone for a similar texture. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk products.

Make Ahead Tips

Flan is an excellent make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an impressive presentation, invert the flan onto a plate with a high rim to catch the caramel sauce. Garnish with edible flowers or mint leaves for a touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Flan pairs beautifully with a sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling. The sweetness of the wine complements the caramel flavors of the flan.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover flan in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Flan is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this flan contains approximately 300 calories. While it is a rich dessert, it can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional treat.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this flan contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and condensed milk, providing the flan's signature sweet taste.

Fats

This flan recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving. The fats are primarily sourced from the eggs and cream cheese, contributing to the dessert's rich and creamy texture.

Proteins

Each serving of flan offers around 8 grams of protein, thanks to the eggs and milk products. This makes the flan not only a delicious dessert but also a source of essential nutrients.

Vitamins and minerals

The flan provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk and vitamin A from the eggs. These nutrients contribute to bone health and vision support, respectively.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, this flan is a rich source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. While indulgent, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

This Best Flan Ever recipe offers a rich and creamy dessert option that's both easy to make and sure to impress. With its smooth texture and caramel flavor, it's a delightful way to end any meal. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, this flan is a testament to the dessert's enduring appeal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for the Best Flan Ever. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Mexico. My grandmother, who was known for her amazing cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for a family gathering.

As I stood by her side, watching her expertly mix the ingredients and pour the caramel into the baking dish, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary prowess. She explained to me that the key to making the perfect flan was in the careful balance of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.

As the flan baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, my grandmother told me the story of how she had learned to make this traditional Mexican dessert. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations of women in our family, each adding their own twist to make it truly unique.

She recounted how her own mother had taught her the recipe when she was just a girl, and how she had spent countless hours perfecting it over the years. She spoke of the love and care that went into each step of the process, from preparing the caramel to carefully pouring the custard mixture into the baking dish.

As I listened to her words, I felt a deep sense of pride in my heritage and a desire to carry on the tradition of making this delicious dessert. I knew that I had to learn the recipe for myself, so that I could someday pass it down to my own children and grandchildren.

After the flan had cooled and set, my grandmother sliced into it, revealing its smooth, creamy texture and rich caramel topping. With a smile on her face, she handed me a piece to try, and I was instantly transported to a place of pure bliss. The flan was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – it was truly the Best Flan Ever.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making flan. I watched my grandmother closely, taking notes on her every move and asking questions about the process. I practiced making the dessert on my own, experimenting with different flavors and techniques until I had perfected my own version of the recipe.

Over the years, I have made the Best Flan Ever for countless family gatherings and special occasions. Each time I serve it, I am reminded of the love and tradition that have been passed down through the generations of women in my family. I am proud to keep this culinary legacy alive, and I know that my grandmother would be proud of the delicious dessert that I have created.

As I sit here now, writing this story and thinking back on that day in my grandmother's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of her knowledge and the joy of sharing this special recipe with those I love. The Best Flan Ever will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of where I come from and the legacy that I carry with me every time I step into the kitchen.