Introduction
Mexican Flan is a rich, creamy custard dessert topped with golden caramel sauce. Silky smooth with a delicate sweetness, it melts in your mouth and finishes every meal on a comforting, elegant note. It’s simple, timeless, and deeply loved.
Origin
Flan originated in ancient Rome and later spread through Spain during the Moorish period. When Spanish colonists brought it to Mexico, it evolved into Flan Napolitano, often made richer with sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk—hallmarks of Mexican-style flan.
Cultural Significance
In Mexico, flan is a celebration dessert, commonly served at birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings. It represents warmth, hospitality, and tradition, often made from recipes passed down through generations.
Ingredients and Quantities
Caramel
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
Flan Custard
- 5 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz / 354 ml) evaporated milk
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
- Orange or lemon zest
- Cinnamon stick infused in milk
- Cream cheese (for ultra-rich flan)
- Coffee or coconut milk variation
Tips for Success
- Low Heat = Smooth Texture: High heat causes bubbles and cracks.
- Strain the Custard: Removes bubbles and egg strands.
- Water Bath Is Essential: Ensures gentle, even cooking.
- Chill Well: Flan sets best after several hours in the fridge.
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
- Cook without stirring until amber-colored.
- Immediately pour into a flan mold or round baking dish, swirling to coat bottom.
- Make Custard:
- In a blender, combine eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Blend just until smooth (do not overblend).
- Assemble:
- Pour custard gently over caramel.
- Cover dish tightly with foil.
- Bake:
- Place flan dish in a larger roasting pan.
- Fill roasting pan halfway with hot water.
- Bake at 170°C (325°F) for 50–60 minutes, until just set.
- Cool & Chill:
- Cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Unmold:
- Run a knife around edges.
- Invert onto a serving plate and let caramel flow over flan.
Description
Mexican flan is luxuriously smooth and creamy, with a delicate egg custard flavor balanced by bittersweet caramel. Each bite is soft, silky, and comforting, with a glossy caramel finish.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 8 servings)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Sugars: 38 g
Values may vary based on portion size.
Conclusion
Mexican Flan is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical. Elegant yet approachable, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style.
Recommendation
Serve chilled, plain, or with fresh berries. Pair beautifully with coffee, espresso, or café de olla.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy flan mindfully by serving smaller slices and savoring its rich texture. You can also reduce sweetness slightly or use low-fat evaporated milk while maintaining its classic flavor.