Textual Chef

Flan

A silky, classic Mexican caramel custard baked in a water bath and inverted to reveal a golden caramel sauce. This version uses a simple combination of eggs, whole milk, and vanilla for a pure, elegant dessert.

75 minMediumServes 6270 cal/serving

MexicanDessertOvenVegetarianGluten-FreeNut-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeSoy-Free

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • pinch salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a 9-inch round cake pan or 6 individual ramekins in a large roasting pan.

  2. 2

    Make the caramel: combine 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for caramel) and 3 tbsp water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Swirl without stirring until the syrup turns deep amber, about 8 to 10 minutes. Pour immediately into the baking pan, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.

  3. 3

    Gently whisk 4 large eggs and 2 large egg yolks in a large bowl. Add 2 cups whole milk, 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, and pinch salt. Whisk until smooth, avoiding air bubbles.

  4. 4

    Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into the caramel-lined pan.

  5. 5

    Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan pan. Carefully transfer to the oven.

  6. 6

    Bake until just set with a slight jiggle in the center, about 45 to 55 minutes.

  7. 7

    Remove from the water bath, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

  8. 8

    Run a thin knife around the edge, invert onto a rimmed plate, and serve with the caramel sauce.

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