Caramel-Glazed Flan Recipe | Healthy & Delicious Spanish Dessert
If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that’s both indulgent and healthy, this Caramel-Glazed Flan is the perfect choice. Originating from Spain, this flan offers a rich caramel flavor and a smooth, creamy texture, all while being reduced in fat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this flan recipe is sure to impress without compromising on taste.
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The Best Caramel-Glazed Flan Recipe
This reduced-fat version of the traditional Caramel-Glazed Flan is a game-changer. With less fat but all the flavor, your family won’t even notice the difference. The caramel glaze, combined with the silky flan, creates a dessert that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Notes on Ingredients
The key to this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll achieve a dessert that’s rich in flavor and texture:
- Sugar: Used to create the caramel glaze, it provides the perfect sweet topping for the flan.
- Egg Yolks & Whites: These give the flan its smooth, creamy consistency.
- Low-Fat Sweetened Condensed Milk: A healthier alternative that still delivers on sweetness and creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract & Salt: These enhance the flavor, adding depth to the dessert.
How to Make Caramel-Glazed Flan
- Prepare the Caramel: In a heavy skillet, melt sugar over medium-low heat until it turns light brown. Carefully pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom.
- Mix the Flan: Beat the egg yolks and whites together. Add water, low-fat condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture into the caramel-coated dish.
- Bake the Flan: Place the baking dish inside a roasting pan lined with a damp towel. Fill the roasting pan with boiling water halfway up the sides of the dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for one hour, until the center is just set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the flan to cool on a wire rack for an hour, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight. To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan and invert onto a rimmed serving platter.
How to Serve Caramel-Glazed Flan
For a perfect presentation, serve the flan on a white dessert plate, allowing the caramel glaze to shine. Pair it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of elegance. This flan makes a stunning finale to any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a formal gathering.
How to Store Caramel-Glazed Flan
Store any leftover flan in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three days. The flavors only improve with time, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing any refrigerator odors.
FAQs About Caramel-Glazed Flan
Can I use whole eggs instead of separating the yolks and whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs, but separating them gives the flan a smoother, creamier texture.
Can I make this flan ahead of time?
Absolutely! This flan tastes even better after it’s been refrigerated overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
What can I serve with Caramel-Glazed Flan?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce make excellent accompaniments.
Is this flan gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities.
The Best Caramel-Glazed Flan Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 6 egg whites
- 1 ¾ cups water
- 1 14 ounce can low-fat sweetened condensed milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a heavy skillet over medium-low heat, cook and stir sugar until melted and light brown. Carefully pour into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting the dish to coat the bottom completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat egg yolks and egg whites. Stir in water, condensed milk, vanilla and salt until smooth. Pour into prepared dish. Line a roasting pan with a damp kitchen towel. Place baking dish on towel, inside roasting pan, and place roasting pan on oven rack. Fill roasting pan with boiling water to reach halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
- Bake in preheated oven 1 hour, until center is just set (still a bit jiggly). Remove dish to a wire rack to cool for one hour. Then refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- To unmold, run a knife around the edge of the pan and invert onto a rimmed serving platter.
