Bain-Marie Flan

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup sugar (for the caramel)
• 0.5 cup water (for the caramel)
• 5 eggs
• 1 cup sugar (for the custard)
• 1 lata evaporated milk (approx. 340-400g)
• 1 lata condensed milk (approx. 397g)
• 2 tbsp vanilla extract (or one vanilla bean)

Steps

1. 1

   To prepare the caramel, place half a cup of sugar along with half a cup of water in a small saucepan.

2. 2

   Let the mixture boil without stirring to prevent the sugar from crystallizing, until a uniform syrup forms.

3. 3

   When the surface begins to turn golden, keep it on the heat for a few more seconds until a slightly dark golden hue is achieved.

4. 4

   Immediately remove from the heat and pour the caramel into the mold. Carefully and using a cloth to protect yourself from the heat (the caramel exceeds 180 °C), swirl the mold to distribute the caramel over the base and sides. Set aside to cool.

5. 5

   For the custard, mix one cup of sugar with the 5 eggs in a large bowl, whisking well with a balloon whisk.

6. 6

   Stir in the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and vanilla extract (or the seeds from one bean).

7. 7

   Mix again until fully integrated. Strain the preparation before pouring it into the caramelized mold to remove any egg residue and ensure a smooth texture.

8. 8

   Place the mold inside a high-sided baking dish and pour water into the outer dish to cook in a bain-marie (water bath).

9. 9

   Bake at 150 °C for approximately 45 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center still jiggles slightly without being liquid.

10. 10

    Let cool completely at room temperature and then refrigerate, ideally overnight, so that the texture improves and the caramel becomes liquid.

11. 11

    When serving, carefully unmold the flan and drizzle it with its own caramel sauce.

Notes

To avoid bubbles and achieve a smooth custard, whisk the ingredients with gentle motions without introducing air. You can infuse the milk with orange zest or cinnamon to vary the flavor. Ensure no water enters the mold during the bain-marie cooking process.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• flan
• sweet
• bain-marie
• classic
• vegetarian