Description
Bánh Flan is a silky Vietnamese caramel custard dessert with a rich caramel layer. This easy recipe delivers a smooth, creamy texture and a delightful sweetness, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Whole milk or evaporated milk
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Instant coffee (optional, for a Vietnamese twist)
- Coconut milk (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and a small amount of water.
- Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and turns into a golden caramel.
- Quickly pour the caramel into individual ramekins or a baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Set aside to let the caramel harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
- In a separate pot, heat the milk and sweetened condensed milk until warm but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs gently until fully combined, then slowly add the warm milk mixture while stirring constantly.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any egg solids for a smoother texture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in a baking dish filled with hot water to create a bain-marie (water bath).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Remove the flans from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate to release the caramel sauce over the flan.
- Optionally, drizzle with coffee or coconut milk for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Coffee-Infused Bánh Flan – Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the warm milk for a bolder taste.
- Coconut Bánh Flan – Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Bánh Flan – Mix in melted dark chocolate for a rich, decadent variation.
- Matcha Bánh Flan – Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the custard for a Japanese-inspired version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking, steaming
- Cuisine: vietnamese
Keywords: Bánh Flan, Vietnamese flan, caramel custard, baked custard, Vietnamese dessert