Flan Caramel Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Flan:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a deep amber color. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
- Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of a round baking dish or individual ramekins, tilting the dish to evenly coat the bottom. Allow the caramel to harden while you prepare the flan mixture.
- Prepare the Flan Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the Flan Mixture:
- Carefully pour the flan mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish or ramekins.
- Bake the Flan:
- Place the baking dish or ramekins in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the baking dish or ramekins (this is called a water bath). This helps cook the flan evenly and prevents it from cracking.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The flan should still have a slight jiggle in the center when done.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set fully.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Invert the flan onto a serving plate. The caramel sauce will flow over the top.
Tips:
- For a smoother texture, you can strain the flan mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the baking dish.
- If you’re using ramekins, reduce the baking time slightly as they will cook faster than a larger dish.
Enjoy your creamy and delicious flan caramel!