Are you craving a dessert that's both elegant and effortlessly delicious? Look no further than this Strawberry Flan recipe! This beautiful, creamy custard dessert with a vibrant strawberry topping is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating a homemade masterpiece that will impress everyone. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
For the Flan:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Making the Flan:
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate or a similar-sized baking dish.
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Combine Ingredients: In a blender or large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and well combined. This is where a good blender can really make the difference for a super smooth flan.
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Bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the smaller dish (this creates a water bath, ensuring even cooking and preventing cracking).
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Bake the Custard: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly.
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Cool & Chill: Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the water bath. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flan to fully set and chill. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Making the Strawberry Topping:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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Simmer & Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker topping, whisk in the cornstarch before simmering. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and released their juices, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Cool: Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Assembling the Strawberry Flan:
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Unmold (Optional): Carefully run a thin knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it from the dish. Invert onto a serving plate. If you’re worried about it sticking, try running the dish under warm water for a few seconds to release it more easily.
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Top & Serve: Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the top of the flan. Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious homemade treat!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use whole eggs instead of a mixture of eggs and yolks.
- Feel free to experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for the topping.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flan for a warm spice note.
- For a quicker dessert, use store-bought pie crust for the base.
- If you don't have a blender, you can whisk the ingredients together by hand, but be sure to whisk vigorously to remove any lumps.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: ~6g Fat: ~12g Carbohydrates: ~35g
This Strawberry Flan is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy custard and sweet, tangy strawberries is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious results! It’s a truly satisfying addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and quick dinner ideas.