Creamy Caramel Flan is a classic dessert originating from Spain and popular throughout Latin America. It consists of a smooth and creamy custard that is topped with a layer of caramel sauce. The dessert is typically baked and then inverted onto a serving dish so that the caramel forms a sauce over the custard. The custard itself is made from eggs, milk (usually a combination of sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk), and sometimes flavored with vanilla extract. The result is a rich, silky texture with a sweet caramel flavor that melts in your mouth. It’s often served chilled and makes for a delightful ending to a meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caramel:
   • Heat the granulated sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns into a golden caramel syrup.
   • Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
2. Make the Custard:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
   • Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the baking dish to create a water bath.
4. Bake:
   • Carefully transfer the roasting pan with the flan into the preheated oven.
   • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
   • Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve:
   • To serve, run a knife around the edges of the dish to loosen the flan. Place a serving plate upside down over the baking dish and quickly invert to release the flan onto the plate, allowing the caramel sauce to flow over the top.
7. Enjoy!
   • Slice and serve the creamy caramel flan chilled. It’s best enjoyed cold with its silky texture and caramel flavor.

This dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a decadent treat!