Easy Flan Recipe {Only 5 Ingredients!}

This Easy Flan Recipe is a creamy, caramel-topped dessert that comes together effortlessly with just five simple ingredients. Flan is a classic custard dessert loved for its silky texture and rich caramel flavor.

With minimal prep and ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners and flan enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting dessert, this flan will wow everyone at the table!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold
• Large roasting pan
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Strainer (optional)
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients Overview

• Sugar: For making the caramel topping.
• Eggs: Provide the base for the custard and help it set.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and a creamy texture.
• Evaporated Milk: Balances the sweetness and creates a rich custard.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
• 5 large eggs
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns golden brown and smooth. Stir gently to avoid clumps.
2. Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to let the caramel harden.

2. Make the Custard

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. For an extra silky texture, strain the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl.

3. Combine and Bake

1. Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
2. Place the baking dish inside a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish (this creates a water bath).
3. Cover the flan with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

4. Cool and Chill

1. Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

5. Unmold and Serve

1. Run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it.
2. Place a serving plate over the baking dish and carefully invert the flan onto the plate. The caramel will flow over the top as a sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Careful with Caramel: Work quickly when making the caramel, as it hardens fast.
• Water Bath: The water bath is essential for even cooking and preventing cracks.
• Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the custard fully set and enhances the flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Serve flan on its own or with fresh fruit like berries or mango slices.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with coffee or espresso for a delightful finish to a meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
While evaporated milk provides a richer texture, whole milk can be used as a substitute.

How long does flan last in the fridge?
Flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it covered to maintain freshness.

Can I make flan in advance?
Yes! Flan tastes even better when made a day ahead, as the flavors meld and the texture improves.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for any occasion, this Easy Flan Recipe is a showstopper dessert. It’s an excellent choice for holidays, dinner parties, or a simple family treat. The caramel sauce and creamy custard will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Easy Flan Recipe

This Easy Flan Recipe is a creamy, caramel-topped dessert that comes together effortlessly with just five simple ingredients. Flan is a classic custard dessert loved for its silky texture and rich caramel flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold
• Large roasting pan
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Strainer (optional)
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup granulated sugar for caramel
• 5 large eggs
• 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Caramel
• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns golden brown and smooth. Stir gently to avoid clumps.
• Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to let the caramel harden.
• Make the Custard
• In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
• Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• For an extra silky texture, strain the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl.
• Combine and Bake
• Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
• Place the baking dish inside a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish (this creates a water bath).
• Cover the flan with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
• Cool and Chill
• Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
• Unmold and Serve
• Run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it.
• Place a serving plate over the baking dish and carefully invert the flan onto the plate. The caramel will flow over the top as a sauce.