Perfect Leche Flan: The Secret to a Silky Dessert.
A classic Filipino dessert known for its rich, creamy custard texture and a decadent golden caramel topping. This recipe ensures a silky-smooth finish using a traditional water bath technique.
- Author: info.mealsmell
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking (Bain-marie)
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Gluten Free
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 6 large eggs
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water. Stir until dissolved, then simmer undisturbed until it reaches a deep amber color (8-10 minutes).
- Quickly pour the caramel into a 9-inch round cake pan, tilting to coat the bottom. Set aside to harden.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture, then pour it over the hardened caramel.
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the cake pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the flan is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the water bath and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Run a knife around the edges, invert onto a serving plate, slice into wedges, and serve.
Notes
- Do not over-whisk the eggs to avoid creating too many air bubbles, which can cause holes in the flan.
- Straining the custard mixture is the secret to a perfectly smooth mouthfeel.
- Ensure the water for the bath is hot before placing it in the oven to maintain consistent temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: Perfect Leche Flan, Filipino Dessert, Caramel Custard, Silky Leche Flan Recipe