Argentinian Flan (Bread Pudding) with Caramel Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Argentinian flan is a beloved dessert known for its creamy, velvety texture that practically melts in your mouth. The combination of eggs, milk, and sugar creates a custard that’s both delicate and rich, while the homemade caramel sauce adds the perfect touch of sweetness. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds—simple ingredients, but a complex and indulgent result. It’s a showstopper for any dinner party or family gathering and is even more special when topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

For the caramel sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• Pinch of salt

For the flan:

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it turns into a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.

2. Add the cream and butter: Once the caramel has reached the right color, carefully add the heavy cream (it will bubble up) and butter. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the flan mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix so you don’t create too many bubbles.

4. Caramelize the flan dish: Pour the caramel sauce into the bottom of a round or oval baking dish (preferably one with a lid) or individual ramekins. Swirl the dish to coat the bottom evenly with the caramel sauce.

5. Bake the flan: Pour the flan mixture over the caramel layer in the dish. Place the baking dish in a larger pan and fill the outer pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the side of the flan dish (this is called a water bath). Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

6. Cool the flan: Once done, remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Afterward, place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best texture.

7. Serve: To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it from the sides. Place a large plate over the top of the baking dish and invert it to release the flan. The caramel sauce should spill over the top of the flan as it’s inverted, creating a beautiful glaze.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. The preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, and the baking time is about 50-60 minutes. After baking, allow the flan to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Variations

• Add cinnamon: For a warm, spicy kick, add a pinch of cinnamon to the flan mixture before baking.

• Flavored flan: You can infuse the milk mixture with a bit of citrus zest (like orange or lemon) or a splash of rum or vanilla bean paste to create a unique flavor.

• Vegan version: Replace the eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives such as coconut milk and cornstarch or silken tofu to create a vegan-friendly version of flan.

• Chocolate flan: For a chocolate twist, melt some chocolate and whisk it into the milk mixture before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover flan in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This dessert is best served chilled and will retain its creamy texture. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Can I make flan in advance?

Yes, flan is the perfect make-ahead dessert. In fact, it’s best when it has been chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together and the texture to set properly.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the caramel?

You can use brown sugar for a slightly deeper, richer caramel flavor. Keep in mind that brown sugar may make the caramel slightly softer.

Can I make individual servings of flan?

Yes, you can divide the flan mixture into individual ramekins and bake them that way. Just be sure to reduce the baking time slightly (check after 40-45 minutes).

Can I make this recipe without a water bath?

While the water bath helps create a smooth, creamy texture, you can bake the flan without it. Just be sure to keep an eye on it, as it may cook slightly faster or unevenly.

Can I substitute evaporated milk with something else?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or another plant-based milk (such as soy or almond) in place of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

What should I do if my caramel is too hard?

If your caramel hardens before you can pour it into the pan, simply reheat it gently over low heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.

Can I freeze this flan?

Flan is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I make this recipe without condensed milk?

Yes, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a homemade version made from coconut milk and sugar or use coconut cream and sugar as a substitute for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when the flan is done baking?

The flan is done when it’s mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can test it by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Can I make this flan without eggs?

If you want to make a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with cornstarch or a mixture of agar-agar and coconut milk.

Conclusion

Argentinian Flan with Caramel Sauce is a timeless dessert that brings the perfect combination of sweetness and texture. The rich caramel sauce paired with the silky custard makes it an indulgent and satisfying treat. This dessert is versatile, simple to make, and can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this flan will surely become a favorite go-to dessert.