Mexican Flan Recipe

Mexican Flan is a smooth, creamy custard dessert with a rich caramel topping that’s beloved across Latin America. This traditional dish is made with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar, yet the result is a decadent treat with a silky texture and sweet caramel finish. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or just a comforting dessert at home, this flan is both timeless and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic, authentic Mexican flavor
• Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Elegant presentation with rich golden caramel
• Can be made ahead for easy entertaining
• Velvety texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar (for caramel)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk
• Whole milk (optional for extra creaminess)
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it becomes a smooth, golden caramel. Quickly pour it into a round baking dish or flan mold, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Let it harden.
2. Prepare the Custard: In a blender or large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk (if using), eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend or whisk until smooth.
3. Strain the Mixture: For extra silky flan, pour the custard through a fine mesh strainer into the caramel-coated dish.
4. Bake in a Water Bath: Place the flan dish inside a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the flan for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the custard is just set with a slight jiggle in the center.
6. Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Unmold: Run a knife around the edges of the flan, place a serving plate on top, and quickly invert to release. The caramel will flow over the top. Serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: About 5 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Flan: Add shredded coconut or use coconut milk for a tropical twist
• Coffee Flan: Mix in a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the custard
• Citrus Zest: Add orange or lime zest for a fragrant, zesty flavor
• Cheesecake Flan: Blend in a few ounces of cream cheese for extra richness
• Chocolate Flan: Add melted dark chocolate or cocoa powder for a deeper flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store flan in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days
• Freezing: Not recommended, as it can alter the texture
• Reheating: Flan is best served cold or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary

FAQs

What is Mexican flan made of?

Mexican flan is made from eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and caramelized sugar.

Can I make flan without a blender?

Yes, just whisk the ingredients very thoroughly until smooth. Straining the mixture will help ensure a creamy texture.

How do I know when the flan is done baking?

The flan should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.

Can I use just regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

You can, but evaporated milk gives flan a richer texture. If using regular milk, use whole milk for best results.

Why did my flan crack?

Cracks usually happen from overbaking or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure to use a water bath and check for doneness early.

How far in advance can I make flan?

Flan is great made a day or two ahead, as it needs time to chill and set properly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure to use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, checking frequently.

How do I prevent bubbles in my flan?

Strain the custard and avoid over-whisking to keep the texture smooth and free of air bubbles.

Why did my caramel harden too quickly?

Caramel hardens fast once off heat. Pour and swirl it into your pan immediately after it’s ready.

What can I serve with flan?

Flan is perfect on its own, but you can garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or mint leaves for extra flair.

Conclusion

Mexican Flan is a rich, creamy, and elegant dessert that brings a little sweetness to any occasion. With its beautiful caramel topping and silky custard base, it’s no wonder this timeless treat is a favorite across generations. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or making it just because, this flan recipe guarantees rave reviews.

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