Are you looking to make a classic Cuban dessert? Cuban flan is a creamy, custard-like treat made with simple ingredients such as eggs and milk. In this article, we’ll be discussing exactly what you need to make a delicious Cuban flan and providing you with a step-by-step guide. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll love this traditional Cuban dessert.
What is Cuban Flan?
Cuban flan is a luscious dessert that is a staple of Cuban cuisine. It’s often served at special occasions such as birthdays and weddings. The rich, creamy custard is similar to the dessert called crème caramel that you may be more familiar with in European culture. It has a smooth texture and an irresistible, sweet flavor.
Traditional Cuban Flan Ingredients
The great thing about this recipe for Cuban flan is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to come by and you may already have most of them in your kitchen.
For the Flan:
• 1 cup of sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
• 14 fl oz of whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
• Whipped cream, for serving
• Fresh fruits, such as berries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Cuban flan from scratch is actually pretty simple. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to make this delicious dessert:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Make the Caramel:
In a saucepan over medium heat, stir the sugar continuously until it melts and turns a golden-brown color. Be careful not to let it burn. You’ll want to swirl it around in the pan but not stir it too much, or else it won’t turn out the same.
When it reaches the desired color, pour the melted sugar into the bottom of a 9-inch round baking dish. Tilt the dish to coat the caramel evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
3. Mix the Flan Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and the sweetened condensed milk. Add the whole milk and vanilla extract, and whisk to combine.
4. Pour the Mixture Over the Caramel:
Pour the egg mixture over the cooled caramel in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Flan:
Place the baking dish into a larger roasting pan, and fill the pan with hot water so that it comes up halfway up the flan dish. Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the flan is set in the middle. You can test this by gently shaking the dish.
6. Cool the Flan:
Take the flan out of the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until cold. When ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of the dish to loosen the flan from the sides. Place a larger plate on top of the dish and carefully flip it over to unmold the flan.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the flan with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of fresh fruits, such as berries. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Cuban Flan
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making Cuban flan:
• Choose the Right Sweetened Condensed Milk:
For an authentic Cuban flan taste, choose a sweetened condensed milk that is made with real sugar and not high fructose corn syrup. You’ll notice the difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Caramel:
Be careful not to let the caramel cook for too long. It will continue to cook even after you take it off the heat, so be sure to watch it closely and be ready to pour it into the baking dish.
• Use a Water Bath:
Baking the flan in a water bath ensures even cooking and creates a silky texture. Be sure to wrap the baking dish with aluminum foil before immersing it in the water, as to avoid any leaks.
• Refrigerate for Best Results:
You’ll want to refrigerate the flan for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps the flavors to develop and creates the perfect, smooth consistency.
Summary
Cuban flan is a delicious and classic dessert that you can easily make at home. The ingredients are simple and the flavor is out-of-this-world. By following the steps above, you can whip up your own version of this traditional Cuban treat in no time. Enjoy!
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