Are you craving a creamy, decadent flan but watching your sugar intake? Look no further! This sugar-free flan recipe delivers all the rich, caramel-y goodness you love without the guilt. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat. This recipe is a testament to how delicious healthy meals can be, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this amazing, sugar-free dessert!
Ingredients:
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For the Caramel:
- 1/2 cup erythritol (or your preferred sugar substitute)
- 1/4 cup water
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For the Flan:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other unsweetened milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup erythritol (or your preferred sugar substitute, adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Make the Caramel:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the erythritol and water.
- Stir constantly until the erythritol dissolves completely and the mixture begins to turn a light amber color. Be careful not to burn it! This is where patience is key for achieving that perfect caramel color.
- Carefully pour the caramel into the bottom of a 9-inch baking dish (or individual ramekins). Swirl to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool completely.
Prepare the Flan Custard:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan.
- In a blender, combine the eggs, coconut milk, almond milk, vanilla extract, salt, and erythritol. Blend until completely smooth and frothy. This ensures a light and airy texture.
- Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel in the baking dish.
- Pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This creates a water bath, preventing the flan from cracking and ensuring even cooking.
Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Carefully remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the flan to set completely.
Serving:
- To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it from the dish.
- Invert a serving plate over the baking dish and carefully flip it over. The flan should slide out onto the plate, revealing the glossy caramel.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Sugar-Free Flan:
- Don't over-bake: Overbaking can result in a dry, rubbery flan. Check for doneness by gently shaking the dish; the center should still have a slight wobble.
- Use full-fat coconut milk: This provides the richness and creaminess essential for a perfect flan.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: The amount of erythritol can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with the recipe amount and add more if needed.
- Individual ramekins: This recipe can easily be adapted for individual servings using ramekins. Adjust baking time accordingly – smaller ramekins will require less baking time.
Variations:
- Spiced Flan: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the custard mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Flan: Add 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a rich chocolate twist.
- Coffee Flan: Add 1-2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee to the custard mixture for a coffee-flavored flan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 6-8g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g (depending on sugar substitute used)
This delicious sugar-free flan is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are also healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this guilt-free dessert! It's sure to become a new favorite among your easy recipes.