Condensed milk is perfect for creating rich, creamy desserts! Here’s a simple and delicious Condensed Milk Dessert that’s easy to whip up: Condensed Milk Flan. It’s a smooth, velvety custard that’s perfectly sweet and absolutely melt-in-your-mouth.
Condensed Milk Flan (Caramel Custard)
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Caramel
- Prepare the caramel: In a medium saucepan, heat 1/4 cup granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sugar will start to melt and turn amber-colored. Be careful not to burn it!
- Once the sugar is melted and golden brown, carefully pour it into a 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to let the caramel cool and harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
- Mix the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and eggs. Add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Flan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Strain the custard: To make the custard smooth and silky, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into the caramel-coated baking dish.
- Create a water bath: Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan. Fill the outer pan with hot water until it comes about halfway up the sides of the flan dish. This helps cook the flan gently and evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cool the flan: Let the flan cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set fully.
- Unmold: To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a serving plate over the top of the flan dish, and carefully flip it over. The caramel will drizzle over the custard, creating a beautiful sauce.
Tips:
- No oven? You can steam the flan in a large pot over simmering water instead of baking it. Just cover the flan dish tightly with foil and steam for about 40-50 minutes.
- For extra flavor: Add a little zest of lemon or orange to the custard mixture for a citrusy twist, or try adding a splash of rum or coconut extract for more depth of flavor.
This dessert is incredibly simple, yet so satisfying. It’s perfect for gatherings, or just when you’re craving something sweet and creamy!
Would you want to try a variation of this, like a coconut flan or a fruity topping?