If you’re on the lookout for a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, this simple two-ingredient recipe is just what you need. Imagine a light, airy dessert that’s similar to custard or flan, but made with only sugar and egg whites. It’s a delightful treat that’s both satisfying and surprisingly elegant. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just starting to explore the world of homemade desserts, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Plus, as a bonus, we’ll also share a richer, creamier version of this dessert that includes a few additional ingredients, creating a more decadent flan experience.
Two-Ingredient Dessert: Light and Delicious
Ingredients
- 300 g (1 1/2 cups) sugar
- 8 egg whites
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
The first step in making this dessert is to create a simple caramel base. Caramel adds a layer of sweetness and complexity to the dessert, making it more than just a basic meringue.
- In a small saucepan, place 300 g of sugar and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar melts and turns into a deep amber-colored caramel. This process requires patience, as you want the caramel to develop a rich flavor without burning.
- Once the caramel is ready, carefully pour it into a bundt pan or a round baking dish. Be sure to tilt the pan to ensure the caramel coats the bottom evenly. Set the pan aside to allow the caramel to cool and harden while you prepare the rest of the dessert.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
Egg whites are the other main ingredient in this recipe. When whipped to stiff peaks, they create a light, airy texture that’s essential for this dessert.
- In a large mixing bowl, begin beating the 8 egg whites with an electric mixer. Start on a low speed and gradually increase it as the egg whites begin to froth and thicken.
- As the egg whites reach soft peaks, slowly add 60 g (1/3 cup) of sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. This step is crucial because the sugar helps stabilize the egg whites, ensuring that your dessert holds its shape after baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
With your caramel set and egg whites whipped, it’s time to assemble the dessert.
- Gently pour the beaten egg whites over the hardened caramel in your baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water to create a water bath, also known as a bain-marie. This method ensures gentle, even cooking, preventing the egg whites from drying out or overcooking.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
- Bake the dessert in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and lightly golden on top. The key here is to bake it slowly, allowing the egg whites to cook through without becoming too dry or rubbery.
- Once baked, remove the dessert from the oven and allow it to cool completely. This step is essential to set the texture and flavor fully.
Step 5: Serve
- After cooling, carefully invert the dessert onto a serving plate. The caramel, which has now softened, will create a beautiful, glossy topping.
- Slice and serve this light, airy dessert. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two.
Bonus Recipe: Rich and Creamy Caramel Flan with Cookies
For those looking to take their dessert experience up a notch, this bonus recipe adds a few more ingredients to create a rich, creamy flan that’s sure to impress. It’s still simple to make but offers a deeper, more complex flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 180 g (1 cup) sugar (for caramel)
- 90 ml (9 tbsp) water
- 4 eggs
- 395 g (1 1/4 cups) condensed milk
- 600 ml (2 1/2 cups) whole milk
- 20 cookies (such as digestive biscuits or Maria cookies)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
Just like in the previous recipe, start by making the caramel.
- In a saucepan, combine 180 g of sugar with 90 ml of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a rich golden brown.
- Pour the caramel into the bottom of a bundt pan or a round baking dish, tilting to coat the base evenly. Set aside to harden.
Step 2: Make the Flan Mixture
This flan mixture is rich and creamy, thanks to the addition of condensed milk and whole milk.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, condensed milk, and whole milk until smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the cooled caramel in the baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Cookie Layer
For added texture and flavor, we’re incorporating a layer of cookies.
- Lightly crush the cookies and sprinkle them over the top of the flan mixture. As the flan bakes, the cookies will soften and create a delightful layer within the dessert.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the baking dish in a larger dish and fill with hot water to create a bain-marie.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 45-60 minutes, or until the flan is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 5: Serve
- Allow the flan to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Invert the flan onto a serving plate and slice to serve. The caramel will coat the flan, while the cookie layer adds a delightful surprise.
These homemade desserts are easy to prepare and deliver impressive results. The simple two-ingredient dessert offers a light and airy treat, perfect for any occasion, while the bonus flan recipe provides a richer, more decadent option that’s still simple to make. Both recipes are sure to become favorites in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with these delightful treats and share them with loved ones for a sweet and satisfying experience!
