Introduction: What is Flan?

Flan, also known as crème caramel, is a silky-smooth custard dessert topped with a golden, glossy caramel sauce. It’s rich, creamy, and melts in your mouth, making it one of the most beloved desserts worldwide.

This classic caramel flan recipe is authentic, foolproof, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this flan will impress everyone at the table.

✅ Perfectly smooth, creamy custard
✅ Deep, rich caramel flavor
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✅ Make ahead – tastes even better the next day!

If you’ve ever been intimidated by making flan at home, don’t worry! I’ll guide you through every step so you can make the perfect caramel flan with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Makes 6 servings)

For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup water

For the Custard:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Classic Caramel Flan

Step 1: Make the Caramel

  1. Melt the Sugar:
    • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and ¼ cup of water.
    • Heat over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
    • Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the sugar cook.
  2. Watch for the Caramelization:
    • The sugar will start turning light golden, then deep amber (this takes about 8-10 minutes).
    • Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even caramelization.
    • Be careful not to let it burn—burnt caramel turns bitter!
  3. Pour the Caramel into the Mold:
    • As soon as the caramel is deep golden brown, immediately pour it into a 9-inch round baking dish or individual ramekins.
    • Swirl the dish to evenly coat the bottom.
    • Let it harden while you prepare the custard.

Step 2: Make the Flan Custard

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Place a large baking dish in the oven and fill it halfway with hot water (this will be your water bath).
  2. Whisk the Eggs:
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 eggs until smooth.
    • Don’t over-whisk—you want a smooth texture, not foam!
  3. Add the Milks & Vanilla:
    • Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk.
    • Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
    • Whisk gently until fully combined.
  4. Strain for a Silky Texture:
    • To ensure the smoothest flan, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it over the caramel.

Step 3: Bake the Flan in a Water Bath

  1. Pour the Custard into the Mold:
    • Gently pour the custard over the hardened caramel.
  2. Set Up a Bain-Marie (Water Bath):
    • Place the flan dish inside the larger baking pan with hot water.
    • The water should reach halfway up the sides of the flan dish—this keeps the custard from cooking too fast.
  3. Bake Until Set:
    • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes.
    • The flan is done when it’s slightly jiggly in the center but set around the edges.
  4. Cool Before Unmolding:
    • Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
    • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight)—this makes the texture extra creamy!

Step 4: Unmold and Serve

  1. Loosen the Edges:
    • Run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it.
  2. Invert the Flan:
    • Place a large plate over the flan dish.
    • Hold the plate and dish firmly together, then flip them upside down.
  3. Let the Caramel Flow:
    • The golden caramel will flow over the flan, creating a beautiful caramel sauce.
  4. Slice and Enjoy!
    • Serve chilled and enjoy the smooth, creamy, caramel goodness!

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Flan

✔ Be Patient with the Caramel: Don’t rush it! Cooking sugar too fast can lead to burnt or grainy caramel.

✔ Use a Water Bath: This ensures even cooking and prevents the flan from curdling.

✔ Don’t Overbake: The flan should have a gentle jiggle in the center when done. Overbaking makes it rubbery.

✔ Chill Overnight: For the best texture, let your flan chill overnight in the fridge before serving.

✔ Strain the Custard: This removes air bubbles and gives your flan a super smooth texture.

Flan Variations – Get Creative!

Once you master the classic caramel flan, you can try these fun variations:

🍫 Chocolate Flan: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolatey twist!

🥥 Coconut Flan: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.

🎃 Pumpkin Spice Flan: Add ½ cup pumpkin purée + 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a fall-inspired dessert.

☕ Coffee Flan: Stir in 1 tablespoon espresso powder for a café-style treat.

🍋 Lemon Flan: Add zest of 1 lemon for a fresh citrusy twist.

How to Store Flan

🥶 In the Fridge: Store flan covered for up to 5 days. The flavors get even better over time!

❄️ In the Freezer: Freeze flan for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbs: 38g

🔹 Want a lower-carb version? Substitute sugar with erythritol and use unsweetened almond milk instead of evaporated milk.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Make This Flan

Caramel flan is one of the most elegant yet simple desserts you can make. With its velvety smooth texture and rich caramel topping, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

This classic recipe is foolproof—just follow the steps, and you’ll have a perfectly creamy, silky flan every time.

So, whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just because, this homemade flan will never disappoint.

Now it’s your turn—give this flan recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! 🍮✨