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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Classic Flan Recipe

Classic Flan is a baked caramel custard with a silky texture and a deep amber caramel sauce. Elegant yet easy, it's the perfect make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or Sunday dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar for caramel
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12 oz can evaporated milk
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Melt sugar in saucepan until golden; pour into baking dish and swirl.
  2. Whisk eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla. Strain.
  3. Pour custard over caramel. Bake in water bath at 350°F for 50–60 mins.
  4. Cool to room temp, then chill 4+ hours.
  5. Unmold onto plate and serve.
  6. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/classic-flan-recipe/

Notes

  • Caramel Sets Fast: Once the sugar melts, work quickly. It firms up fast in the pan
  • Don’t Overbake: Flan should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Overbaking makes it rubbery.
  • Use a Water Bath: This gentle baking method prevents curdling and keeps the texture ultra-smooth.