How to Make Authentic Mexican Flan at Home

Mexican flan, a beloved dessert across Latin America, is a creamy custard topped with a rich caramel sauce. Making authentic Mexican flan at home is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a splendid flan that family and friends will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a traditional Mexican flan, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of sugar (for caramel)
  • 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) of evaporated milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Preparing the Caramel

The first step in making flan is to prepare the caramel. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of sugar. Stir constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it. Once melted, quickly pour the caramel into a round flan mold or a cake pan, tilting the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and solidify.

Making the Flan Mixture

In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 30 seconds.

Poring the Mixture into the Mold

After the caramel has set, pour the egg and milk mixture over the caramel in the mold. Make sure not to disturb the caramel layer at the bottom.

Baking the Flan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). To bake the flan, place the mold in a larger baking dish filled with hot water, creating a water bath. This method ensures that the flan cooks evenly and remains smooth. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the flan is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Cooling and Refrigerating

Once baked, remove the flan from the oven and the water bath. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the flan to firm up and enhances its flavor.

Serving the Flan

When ready to serve, take the flan out of the refrigerator. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the mold. Place a plate over the top and invert the flan onto the plate. The caramel will flow over the top, creating a beautiful presentation.

Tips for Perfect Flan

  • For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the flan mixture.
  • If you want to infuse additional flavors, you can add spices like cinnamon or even orange zest.
  • Ensure the oven temperature is accurate to avoid undercooking or overcooking the flan.

Making authentic Mexican flan at home is a rewarding culinary experience that brings a taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. Enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends for any special occasion or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day!