Spanish flan is a simple, elegant baked custard crowned with a thin layer of glassy caramel.
The custard is mixed gently, strained for smoothness, and baked in a water bath so it sets softly without cracking.
Let the caramel turn amber but not dark brown. It continues cooking in the hot pan and can become bitter if pushed too far.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with its caramel sauce, orange zest, berries, or a little unsweetened whipped cream.
Recipe Notes
Chill the flan overnight when possible. Run a thin knife around the edge and dip the mold briefly in warm water before unmolding.
Classic Spanish Flan
A silky baked custard with vanilla and orange zest, unmolded over a glossy layer of caramel.
Equipment
- Heavy saucepan
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Roasting pan
Ingredients
Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp water
Custard
- 5 large eggs
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 1 tsp finely grated orange zest optional
Instructions
Make the caramel:
- Heat the sugar and water in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook without stirring until amber, then immediately pour into the cake pan and swirl to coat the bottom.
Mix the custard:
- Whisk the eggs gently in a bowl without adding too much air.
- Whisk in the condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, salt, and orange zest.
- Strain the custard over the caramel in the pan.
Bake and chill:
- Place the cake pan in a roasting pan and add hot water halfway up its sides.
- Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still trembles slightly.
- Cool, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Run a knife around the edge, invert onto a serving plate, and spoon over the caramel.
Notes
- Straining removes any chalaza or foam for a smooth custard.
- Do not overbake; the center firms as it chills.
- Keep refrigerated and serve within three days.
Nutrition
Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 150mgSugar: 49g