Flan Napolitano: A Delightful Dessert to Savor
If you love desserts that are creamy, rich, and simply irresistible, then you’re in for a treat with Flan Napolitano. This classic Mexican dessert is known for its smooth texture and sweet caramel flavor. Originating from Mexico, Flan Napolitano has a unique history that traces back to the French influence on Mexican cuisine. It’s a dessert that brings families together during celebrations, holidays, and special occasions.
The reason why this recipe is so popular is because it combines simple ingredients to create something truly special. The creamy custard is topped with a delicious caramel layer that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, Flan Napolitano is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
Evaporated milk | 1 can (12 oz) |
Eggs | 4 large |
Sugar (for caramel) | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Water | 1/4 cup |
Note: You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with milk and sugar if you prefer a lighter version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it cook without stirring until it turns a golden brown color. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the mold: Immediately pour the caramel into a circular baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom and sides. Be careful as it’s hot!
- Blend the custard: In a blender, add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the milk mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled with water (this is a water bath). Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Chill: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: To serve, run a knife along the edges of the flan, invert onto a plate, and let the caramel sauce drizzle over it. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
Calories | 250 | 12% |
Protein | 5g | 10% |
Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
Fat | 10g | 15% |
Sugars | 30g | N/A |
Calcium | 150mg | 15% |
Tips and Tricks
- For a richer flavor: Try adding a pinch of salt to the caramel.
- Serve cold: Flan tastes best when chilled, so don’t skip the refrigeration step!
- Common Mistakes: Avoid stirring the sugar too much when making caramel, as this can cause crystallization.
- Variations: You can add lemon or orange zest to the custard for a citrus twist!
FAQs
What is Flan Napolitano?
Flan Napolitano is a creamy custard dessert topped with a caramel sauce, popular in Mexico and other Latin American countries.
How long does it take to make Flan Napolitano?
The total time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes including baking and chilling time.
Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar?
Yes! You can use agave syrup or honey in place of sugar, but keep the flavor in mind as it may vary.
How do I know when the flan is done?
The flan is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should still be slightly jiggly.
Can I make Flan Napolitano ahead of time?
Absolutely! Flan can be made up to two days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
What do I serve with Flan Napolitano?
Flan is delicious on its own or paired with fresh fruit like berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Is Flan Napolitano gluten-free?
Yes, Flan Napolitano is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or wheat-based ingredients.
What’s the best way to store leftover flan?
Store leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make Flan Napolitano in individual portions?
Yes! You can use ramekins instead of a large baking dish to create individual servings.
How can I make my flan more flavorful?
Adding ingredients such as coconut milk or spices like cinnamon can enhance the flavor of your flan.
Now that you have this delicious recipe for Flan Napolitano, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking! With its rich history and delightful taste, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your sweet creation!