What is a Mexican flan?

Mexican flan is a creamy, egg-based custard dessert topped with a rich caramel sauce. Unlike other custards, it typically includes sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, which give it a silky texture and a sweet, milky flavor. It's baked in a water bath for even cooking and served chilled.

What's the difference between Mexican flan and Spanish flan?

While both versions are custard-based and topped with caramel, Mexican flan often includes sweetened condensed milk, which makes it richer and slightly denser. Spanish flan typically uses only whole milk and sugar, resulting in a lighter texture and more egg-forward flavor.

What are the ingredients in a flan?

The basic ingredients for a classic flan include sugar (for the caramel), eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Some recipes may add a pinch of salt or citrus zest for added depth.

Is there a difference between flan and purin?

Yes. Purin is the Japanese version of flan and is generally lighter, often made with gelatin for a firmer texture. It's usually steamed rather than baked, and its flavor is more delicate compared to the rich and creamy profile of Mexican flan.

Mexican Flan Recipe – Creamy, Classic & Irresistible

Name: Mexican Flan Recipe: Creamy, Authentic Dessert with Caramel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: PT-488950H8M39S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ¾ cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt (optional)

Description

A rich and silky traditional Mexican flan with sweet caramel on top. Perfectly smooth, creamy, and easy to make with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

¾ cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt (optional)

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Instructions

1. Melt sugar in a pan over medium heat to make caramel.

2. Pour caramel into a round cake pan and swirl to coat the bottom.

3. Whisk eggs, then mix in both milks, vanilla, and salt.

4. Strain the mixture and pour it into the caramel-lined pan.

5. Place pan in a water bath and bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes.

6. Chill for at least 4 hours, then unmold and serve.

Notes

Use room-temperature eggs for better texture.

Strain custard to remove air bubbles and egg bits.

Don’t overbake; the flan should jiggle slightly in the center.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 95mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 130mg