5-Ingredient Caramel Flan

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this delicious 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan. This creamy, smooth custard dessert is incredibly simple to make, yet looks and tastes like something from a gourmet bakery. Perfect for satisfying any sweet craving, this flan recipe brings together just the right balance of caramel sweetness and velvety texture without overwhelming your kitchen with too many ingredients or complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless elegance: With only five ingredients, this recipe keeps things beautifully simple without sacrificing any flavor.
• Quick prep: You can have this luscious dessert ready in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute guest treats.
• Rich yet light: The flan is satisfyingly creamy but never heavy, leaving you wanting just one more bite.
• Universal appeal: This dessert appeals to all ages and tastes, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or celebrations.
• Minimal cleanup: Few ingredients and simple cookware mean spending less time cleaning up and more time enjoying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan recipe calls for very simple yet essential ingredients that each add something special to the final dish. From the smooth silkiness of the eggs to the perfect golden caramel layer, every element plays a crucial role in this dessert’s signature flavor and texture.

• Granulated sugar: This is used to create the rich, golden caramel that coats the flan’s surface.
• Whole milk: Provides a creamy base that balances richness and makes the custard smooth.
• Eggs: They give the flan its silky, custardy texture and help it set beautifully.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds natural sweetness and richness without the need for additional sugar.
• Vanilla extract: Brings that warm, fragrant flavor that perfectly complements the caramel and custard.

Variations for 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan

One of the best parts about this 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to switch up flavors, accommodate dietary needs, or simply try something new, these variations make it fun and simple to tweak the classic recipe.

• Coconut twist: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk for a tropical flair and mild coconut aroma.
• Flavored infusions: Add a few strips of lemon or orange zest to the milk for a subtle citrus note in the custard.
• Dairy-free version: Use almond or oat milk and a vegan egg substitute to make it suitable for plant-based diets.
• Chocolate caramel flan: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder with the caramel sugar for a rich chocolatey twist.
• Spiced flan: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard to add warmth and complexity.

How to Make 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

Start by melting granulated sugar over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed pan. Stir gently until it turns a deep amber color without burning. Immediately pour this caramel into your flan mold or ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom evenly before it hardens.

Step 2: Heat the Milk

Warm the whole milk in a saucepan just until it is about to boil. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before combining with other ingredients — this helps avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.

Step 3: Mix Custard Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly whisk in the warm milk to combine, ensuring the mixture is silky and even.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the custard mixture over the set caramel in your mold. Place the mold into a larger baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides of the mold to create a water bath, then bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 45-50 minutes until the custard is just set.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Once baked, remove the flan from the water bath and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate so the caramel flows over the top beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan

• Slow caramel cooking: Be patient melting the sugar to avoid burning and ensure a smooth, flavorful caramel.
• Water bath is key: Using a water bath prevents the custard from cracking and promotes even cooking.
• Room temperature eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for a creamier texture and better emulsification.
• Don’t overbake: The flan should be slightly jiggly in the center when done, as it will firm up while chilling.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow plenty of chilling time for the best texture and to let the caramel soak into the custard.

How to Serve 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan

Garnishes

Simple is best when it comes to garnishing caramel flan. Fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar add a lovely finishing touch without overpowering the delicate custard.

Side Dishes

Pair your flan with lightly toasted nuts, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for delightful textural contrast and extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual flans in pretty ramekins or even inverted onto elegant plates for a sophisticated look. You can also layer caramel flan with fruit compote in clear glasses for an eye-catching dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and creamy.

Freezing

While freezing flan can slightly alter the texture, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

It’s best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it warmer, briefly warm individual servings in a low oven or stop microwaving as soon as it reaches your desired temperature to avoid curdling.

FAQs

Can I use powdered sugar for the caramel?

Granulated sugar is recommended for smooth, golden caramel, but powdered sugar is not ideal as it contains cornstarch and won’t caramelize properly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

You can substitute with a mix of evaporated milk and sugar, but sweetened condensed milk provides the best texture and sweetness balance.

How do I know when the flan is done baking?

The flan is ready when the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan.

Can I make this flan vegan?

By swapping dairy for plant-based milk and eggs for vegan alternatives like silken tofu or chickpea flour mixes, you can create a vegan version, though it may alter texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

This 5-Ingredient Caramel Flan is a delightful treat that proves you don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to make a memorable dessert. Its smooth texture and rich caramel flavor will quickly become a favorite for any occasion. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at what a little simplicity and love can create in your kitchen!

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