HOMEMADE VANILLA FLAN

**Homemade Vanilla Flan: A Creamy, Custard Delight**

Flan, a smooth and velvety custard dessert, is a classic favorite that has been loved for generations. With its rich, creamy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, it’s the perfect dessert to serve at family gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something indulgent and sweet. And the best part? You can make this **Homemade Vanilla Flan** from scratch in your very own kitchen, and the result will be nothing short of amazing.

This flan recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized sugar with a silky, custard base, all enhanced by the comforting aroma of vanilla. The gentle baking process creates a flan that’s both firm yet creamy, making it a satisfying end to any meal.

If you’ve always been intimidated by making flan, this simple recipe will prove that it’s easier than you think. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful dessert.

### Ingredients:

To make your own **Homemade Vanilla Flan**, you’ll need the following ingredients:

#### For the caramel:
– **1 cup granulated sugar** – The main ingredient to create the sweet, golden caramel sauce.
– **2 tablespoons water** – Helps the sugar melt evenly without burning.

#### For the custard:
– **1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk** – Provides the flan with a rich sweetness and smooth texture.
– **1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk** – Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
– **3 large eggs** – The eggs act as the binding agents, giving the flan its custard-like consistency.
– **1 tablespoon vanilla extract** – For that warm, aromatic vanilla flavor.
– **1/4 cup granulated sugar** – To sweeten the custard base.
– **Pinch of salt** – To balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

### Directions:

**Step 1: Prepare the Caramel**

The first step in making flan is preparing the caramel, which will form the bottom layer of the dessert. In a medium saucepan, add **1 cup of sugar** and **2 tablespoons of water**. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat slightly and allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. Keep a close eye on it as it boils. The sugar will gradually turn golden, and you’ll begin to see the caramelization process. Be careful not to let the caramel burn.

When the caramel reaches a rich amber color, carefully pour it into a round 9-inch cake pan or a flan mold. Tilt the pan to coat the bottom evenly with the caramel, but be careful, as the caramel will be extremely hot. Allow the caramel to cool and harden while you prepare the custard.

**Step 2: Prepare the Custard**

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the **3 large eggs**, **1/4 cup of sugar**, and a **pinch of salt** until well combined and smooth. Add the **sweetened condensed milk**, **evaporated milk**, and **vanilla extract** to the egg mixture, and continue whisking until everything is fully incorporated.

This custard mixture is what will create the flan’s creamy texture. Make sure there are no lumps, and that everything is combined evenly.

**Step 3: Pour the Custard into the Caramel-Coated Pan**

Once the caramel has hardened, pour the custard mixture into the pan over the set caramel layer. The caramel will remain at the bottom, while the custard forms the creamy top layer. Be sure to pour gently to avoid disturbing the caramel layer.

**Step 4: Bake the Flan**

Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Prepare a water bath by placing the flan pan into a larger roasting pan or baking dish. Add hot water to the outer pan, filling it halfway up the sides of the flan pan. This gentle water bath will help the flan cook evenly and prevent cracking.

Carefully transfer the flan to the preheated oven, and bake for **50-60 minutes**. The flan is done when it is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

**Step 5: Let It Cool and Refrigerate**

Once the flan is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, cover the flan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for at least **4 hours**, or ideally overnight. Chilling the flan will allow the caramel to firm up, and the custard to set perfectly.

**Step 6: Unmold and Serve**

After the flan has chilled, it’s time to unmold it. To do this, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the flan. Place a large plate or serving platter over the top of the pan and carefully flip it over. Gently lift the pan off to reveal the beautifully caramelized top of the flan.

Slice into wedges and serve! The flan can be enjoyed on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh fruit for an added touch.

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