Cuban-Style Flan Recipe

by

When it comes to desserts that capture the essence of Latin American cuisine, This Cuban-Style Flan Recipe stands out as a beloved favorite. This smooth, creamy custard topped with a luscious caramel sauce is a staple in Cuban households, making it a cherished treat for special occasions and everyday indulgence alike.

What Makes Cuban Flan Unique?

What sets Cuban flan apart from its Mexican counterpart and other variations is its unique balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.

While both Cuban and Mexican flans share a similar base of eggs, milk, and sugar. Cuban flan typically features a richer, creamier texture due to the addition of sweetened condensed milk. This gives it a distinctive sweetness and a silky texture. Additionally, Cuban flan often incorporates vanilla and sometimes a hint of citrus zest, adding a unique depth of flavor that differentiates it from other flan variations.

The Significance of Cuban-Style Flan

Flan has deep roots in Spanish cuisine, and its journey to Cuba reflects the island’s vibrant culinary history. It’s often served during gatherings and for special occasions, symbolizing togetherness and celebration. Making flan can be a fun affair, with loved ones gathering around to help in the kitchen and share stories while the dessert bakes.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Fresh Fruit Topping: Serve flan with fresh berries, mango slices, or a fruit compote to add a burst of flavor and color.
  2. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds richness and lightness that pairs beautifully with the creamy flan.
  3. Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the flan for a tropical twist and added texture.
  4. Caramel Sauce: Serve with extra caramel sauce, like Dulce de Leche, on the side for those who love an extra sweet kick.
  5. Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top enhances the flavor and gives it a lovely aroma.

These serving suggestions will enhance your Cuban-Style Flan and make it even more delightful!

Making Cuban Style Flan is a rewarding experience that brings the sweet flavors of Cuba into your kitchen. With its unique blend of creamy goodness and caramel richness, this flan is sure to impress family and friends alike. Indulge in this classic Cuban dessert that beautifully reflects the warmth and joy of Cuban culture!

From my table to yours,

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Print Recipe

Cuban-Style Flan Recipe

A creamy, caramel-topped custard dessert that combines sweetened condensed milk and eggs, resulting in a rich and smooth treat that's perfect for any occasion.
Total Time5 hours
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Cuban, Latin
Keyword: Cuban Flan, Flan
Servings: 10 servings
Author: Touching Tables

Ingredients

For the Caramel

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water

For the Flan

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 oz
  • 1 can evaporated milk 12 oz
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 zest of lime, lemon, or orange optional

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Caramel

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
  • Once dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil until it turns a golden amber color (about 8-10 minutes). Be careful not to let it burn.
  • Quickly pour the caramel into a round baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly.
  • Set aside to harden.

Blend the Flan Ingredients

  • In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and citrus zest (if using).
  • Blend until smooth and well combined.

Pour the Mixture

  • Carefully pour the flan mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.

Bake in a Water Bath

  • Place the flan dish inside a larger baking pan.
  • Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish.
  • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Carefully Remove

  • After the flan has finished baking, carefully take the baking dish out of the water bath. Be cautious, as the water will be hot.
  • Allow the flan to cool in the baking dish at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it set properly.

Chilling Period

  • Once it’s at room temperature, cover the flan with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator.
  • Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor and texture.

Serve

  • When ready to serve, take the flan out of the refrigerator.
  • Use a sharp knife to gently run around the edges of the flan. This helps loosen it from the sides of the baking dish.
  • Place a serving plate upside down over the flan.
  • Carefully invert the baking dish, allowing the flan to slide out onto the plate.

Enjoy

  • As you invert it, the caramel sauce will flow over the flan.
  • Cut the flan into wedges and enjoy!

Notes

 

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