This homemade coffee flan is a creamy, indulgent dessert that perfectly balances the rich flavors of coffee and caramel. It’s a dessert you’ll never get tired of eating, thanks to its smooth texture and delicious taste. Whether you’re serving it after a meal or enjoying it as a treat, this coffee flan is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here’s how to make this delightful dessert in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 150 g sugar
- 40 ml water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Flan:
- 750 ml whole milk
- 180 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- Combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice:
- In a small saucepan, combine 150 g of sugar, 40 ml of water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Stir gently to combine, but avoid stirring too much once the mixture begins to cook to prevent crystallization.
- Cook the caramel:
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and begins to caramelize.
- Continue cooking until the sugar turns a deep amber color, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour the caramel into molds:
- Once the caramel reaches the desired color, immediately pour it into individual ramekins or a large flan mold, swirling the caramel around to coat the bottom evenly.
- Set the molds aside to let the caramel harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Flan Mixture
- Heat the milk:
- In a medium saucepan, heat 750 ml of whole milk over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling.
- Dissolve the coffee:
- Add 2 tablespoons of instant coffee to the warm milk and stir until fully dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 180 g of sugar, 3 eggs, and 3 egg yolks until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine the egg mixture with the coffee milk:
- Gradually pour the warm coffee milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Flan
- Pour the flan mixture into the caramel-lined molds:
- Strain the coffee flan mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl with a spout. This helps remove any bits of cooked egg and ensures a smooth flan.
- Pour the strained mixture into the caramel-lined molds, filling them nearly to the top.
- Bake the flan:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Place the filled molds in a large baking dish and add hot water to the dish, creating a water bath (bain-marie) that reaches halfway up the sides of the molds.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool the flan:
- Remove the molds from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Step 4: Serve
- Unmold the flan:
- To serve, run a knife around the edge of each mold to loosen the flan.
- Invert each mold onto a serving plate and gently lift it off to release the flan and caramel.
- Enjoy this creamy coffee flan:
- Serve the flan as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cook’s Notes
- Caramel: Be careful when making the caramel, as it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. Remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches a deep amber color.
- Milk: Whole milk is ideal for a rich, creamy texture, but you can use a mixture of milk and cream for an even richer flan.
- Baking: The water bath is essential for gentle, even cooking and helps prevent the flan from cracking.
Variations
Vanilla Coffee Flan
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the flan mixture for a subtle vanilla flavor that complements the coffee.
Mocha Flan
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the coffee milk for a delicious mocha flavor.
Nutty Coffee Flan
Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts on top of the flan before serving for a crunchy texture.
Spiced Coffee Flan
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the coffee milk for a warm, spiced twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this flan ahead of time?
Yes, flan is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftover flan?
Store any leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze flan?
While it’s possible to freeze flan, it may alter the texture, making it slightly grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after being refrigerated.
4. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, adjusting the amount to taste.
5. How do I know when the flan is done?
The flan is done when it is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
This creamy coffee flan is a delicious and easy homemade dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich flavor of coffee combined with the smooth, creamy texture of the flan and the sweetness of the caramel makes this dessert truly irresistible. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this coffee flan is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful treat!
