Food 2025-03-31 23:58:38

Condensed Milk Flan Recipe

Introduction

Condensed milk flan is one of those classic desserts that never go out of style. Its smooth and creamy texture, combined with the sweet touch of caramel, makes it a favorite for many families. It’s a dessert that not only looks impressive but is also incredibly easy to prepare. Best of all, you can make it with basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

Why is this recipe special? Because it combines the richness of condensed milk with a simple preparation method that always delivers delicious results. If you love homemade desserts or just want to surprise your loved ones with something sweet, this flan is a perfect choice.

Today, I'll guide you step by step through the process, with all the necessary tips to help you achieve a perfect flan. So, if you've ever felt intimidated by the idea of making caramel or cooking in a water bath, don't worry. By the end of this recipe, you'll feel like a kitchen expert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making condensed milk flan at home is easier than it seems, and there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this recipe.

Key Benefits

✔ Easy to prepare – You don’t need any baking experience to make a delicious flan. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are accessible.
✔ Amazing texture and flavor – The combination of condensed milk and eggs results in a creamy, flavorful flan.
✔ Versatility – Perfect for any occasion, from a special dinner to a casual dessert at home.
✔ Visually appealing – The golden caramel topping makes it look as good as it tastes.

Perfect Occasions

Condensed milk flan is ideal for:

Family gatherings, where a homemade dessert always impresses.
Celebrations like birthdays or special dinners.
An everyday meal that deserves a sweet and sophisticated ending.

This recipe is inclusive and perfect for sharing with everyone, from children to adults. Plus, it’s so flexible that you can customize it with a hint of coconut, coffee, or even chocolate for a unique twist.

Condensed milk flan is not only delicious but also a symbol of hospitality and tradition. So, get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more and will become one of your favorites. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Condensed Milk Flan

A successful condensed milk flan starts with choosing the right ingredients. This recipe uses only a few basic elements, but each plays an essential role in achieving that creamy texture and irresistible flavor. I'll guide you through the key ingredients and provide some helpful tips to get the most out of them.

Main Ingredients

Make sure to measure each ingredient precisely for the best results.

Sugar (½ cup) – The heart of the caramel. When heated with a little water, it transforms into a golden, shiny topping that gives the flan its sweet and elegant touch.
- Tip: Use granulated white sugar for a smooth and uniform caramel. If it's your first time making caramel, be patient and avoid stirring to prevent crystallization.
Eggs (3 units) – Essential for giving the flan its structure while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Tip: Lightly beat the eggs before mixing them with the other ingredients to prevent lumps from forming.
Condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz / 397g) – The star ingredient that provides sweetness and a unique creaminess.
- Tip: Do not substitute it, as it is key to this recipe.
Whole milk (1 can, same size as the condensed milk) – Balances the sweetness of the condensed milk and gives the flan a smooth texture.
- Alternative: If you prefer a lighter flan, you can use semi-skimmed milk, though the texture may not be exactly the same.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor and adds a warm touch to the flan.
- Tip: If you have access to natural vanilla, use it for a more authentic taste. You can even scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean and add them to the mixture.

How to Prepare Condensed Milk Flan

Now that you have everything you need, it's time to prepare this delicious flan. Don’t worry if you’ve never made caramel or flan before—I’ll guide you step by step to make the process simple and the result spectacular. Let's get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

Caramel is the soul of the flan, and although it seems complicated, it's easier than you think if you follow these tips.

Place ½ cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water in a heavy-bottomed pan.
- This helps the sugar melt evenly.
Cook over medium heat without stirring.
- The sugar will start to melt and turn golden. Do not stir, as mixing can cause the caramel to crystallize.
Remove from heat when the caramel turns a golden amber color.
- This happens quickly, so stay alert. If the caramel is too dark, it may taste bitter.
Pour the hot caramel into the flan mold.
- Tilt the mold so the caramel evenly coats the bottom. Work quickly, as caramel hardens as it cools.

Tip: If the caramel hardens before covering the bottom, don’t worry. The heat from the flan while cooking will soften it.

Step 2: Mix the Flan Ingredients

This part is the easiest and fastest. You only need a bowl and a manual whisk.

Beat 3 eggs in a large bowl.
- Do this gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause bubbles in the flan.
Add 1 can of condensed milk and 1 can of whole milk.
- Use the same can of condensed milk as a measuring cup for the whole milk. This ensures perfect proportions.
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- If you prefer a smoother flan, you can strain the mixture to remove any lumps or bubbles.

Step 3: Bake the Flan

The water bath technique is key to achieving a smooth, even texture.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Make sure the oven is properly heated before placing the flan inside.
Pour the flan mixture into the mold with caramel.
- Do this carefully to avoid disturbing the caramel.
Place the mold in a larger baking pan and add hot water until it reaches halfway up the flan mold.
- This is the water bath, which helps the flan cook evenly without burning.
Bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Unmold the Flan

Let the flan cool at room temperature.
- Do not refrigerate immediately, as this could cause cracks.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- This allows the flan to set properly and makes unmolding easier.
To unmold, run a thin knife along the edges of the mold.
- Flip the mold onto a plate. If the flan doesn’t release easily, tap the mold gently.

Tip: If the caramel doesn’t flow easily when unmolding, place the mold in hot water for a few seconds to loosen it.

Final Thoughts

Condensed milk flan is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition that brings people together. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, this flan is always a hit. Follow these tips, experiment with flavors, and share this treat with your loved ones. Your next kitchen masterpiece awaits! 🍮