BAKED LECHE FLAN RECIPE
Leche Flan is a rich and creamy Filipino custard dessert topped with a caramel sauce. This baked version is easy to make and results in a smooth, velvety texture that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- For the Flan:
- 10 egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions
Preparing the Caramel:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium-high heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns into a deep amber caramel. Do not stir; swirl the pan gently to mix.
- Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of a baking dish or flan mold (llanera), tilting to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.
Preparing the Flan:
- Mix the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and sugar (if using). Mix until well combined. Avoid creating too many bubbles.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Pour the custard mixture through a fine sieve into the caramel-coated mold. This helps to ensure a smooth texture by removing any lumps or unincorporated egg pieces.
Baking the Flan:
- Prepare a Water Bath:
- Place the filled mold into a larger baking dish. Fill the larger dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the mold. This water bath (bain-marie) will help the flan cook evenly and prevent cracking.
- Bake:
- Carefully transfer to the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool:
- Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set.
Serving:
- Unmold:
- Run a thin knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a serving plate on top of the mold and quickly invert to release the flan onto the plate, allowing the caramel to drizzle over the top.
- Enjoy:
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your creamy, delicious Baked Leche Flan!