Flan is a timeless dessert loved by many for its smooth, creamy texture and luscious caramel topping. Traditionally made with wheat-based ingredients, it might seem tricky to enjoy this indulgence if you’re following a gluten-free lifestyle.
But worry no more! This gluten free flan recipe brings the classic flavors you adore without compromising your dietary needs.
Rich, silky, and perfectly sweet, it’s a dessert that anyone can savor, whether you have gluten intolerance or just prefer to avoid gluten in your diet.
This recipe is straightforward and requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite flavors.
Whether it’s a special occasion or a treat to brighten your day, this gluten free flan will become your go-to dessert. Ready to impress yourself and your guests?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s completely gluten free, making it safe and enjoyable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Second, the preparation is simple and doesn’t require fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. The result is a perfectly creamy flan with a rich caramel top that melts in your mouth.
Additionally, the flan has a delicate sweetness balanced by the slight bitterness of homemade caramel. It’s a comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Plus, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegan or dairy-free versions if you want to explore different dietary preferences.
For more delicious and easy-to-make gluten free and vegan recipes, check out some of our favorites like 5 Ingredient Vegan Gluten Free Recipes for Easy Meals or Amazing Gluten Free Low Calorie Vegan Recipe Video Funny Moments.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- 8-inch round baking dish or flan mold
- Large roasting pan (for the water bath)
- Medium saucepan (for caramel)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (for covering)
Instructions
- Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color, about 7-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
- Pour the caramel: Quickly but carefully pour the hot caramel into the bottom of your baking dish or flan mold. Tilt the dish to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to let the caramel harden.
- Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard over caramel: Pour the custard mixture gently over the set caramel in the baking dish.
- Prepare the water bath: Place the baking dish inside the large roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish. This water bath ensures even, gentle cooking.
- Bake the flan: Cover the flan dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes. The flan is done when the edges are set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Unmold the flan: To serve, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate on top, then invert quickly. The caramel sauce will flow over the flan.
Tips & Variations
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the whole milk and use coconut condensed milk if available.
Make sure to stir the sugar constantly when making caramel to avoid burning. If your caramel hardens before pouring, gently warm it again to liquefy.
Use fresh eggs for the best custard texture and avoid overbaking to keep it creamy.
You can also add a twist by infusing the milk with cinnamon sticks or citrus zest before mixing to add a subtle flavor boost. For a richer flan, try replacing some of the whole milk with heavy cream (if not dairy-free).
Curious about more gluten free desserts? Check out our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy or learn how to make a Best Vegan Cheese Scone Recipe for Fluffy, Tasty Bakes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 7 g |
Cholesterol | 130 mg |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Sugar | 33 g |
Protein | 6 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your gluten free flan chilled for the best texture and flavor. Complement it with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or mango for a refreshing contrast.
A dollop of whipped cream or coconut cream adds a lovely richness.
For an extra special touch, sprinkle crushed toasted nuts such as pistachios or almonds on top just before serving. You might also consider pairing it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
If you enjoy exploring diverse recipes, you might love our Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious or quick bites like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.
Conclusion
This gluten free flan recipe is a wonderful way to indulge your sweet tooth without worrying about gluten. It offers the classic creamy texture and luscious caramel topping that makes flan such a beloved dessert worldwide.
Simple to prepare and customizable, it’s a perfect dessert for family dinners, celebrations, or when you just want a comforting treat.
With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a beautiful dessert that everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or try dairy-free alternatives to suit your preferences.
If you’re passionate about gluten free or plant-based cooking, be sure to explore other recipes on our site to continue your delicious journey.
📖 Recipe Card: Gluten Free Flan
Description: A creamy and smooth traditional flan made gluten free by using cornstarch as a thickener. Perfect for a rich dessert without gluten.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until golden caramel forms; pour into flan mold.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, and vanilla; mix well.
- Pour mixture over caramel in the mold.
- Place mold in a water bath and bake for 50 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 9g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 40g
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