Flan, a beloved dessert across many cultures, has a special place in my heart, especially after my recent trip to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica. There, the lush landscapes and the rich flavors of the local cuisine inspired me to create a unique twist on this classic dessert. This Caramel Coconut Flan is infused with creamy coconut milk and a hint of lime, transporting you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
### Ingredients
For the caramel:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
For the flan:
– 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lime
– Pinch of salt
### Instructions
Prepare the caramel by combining the granulated sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil. Watch closely as it turns a deep amber color, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once ready, quickly pour the caramel into a round flan mold or individual ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, lime zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps from the eggs.
Pour the flan mixture over the caramel in the mold or ramekins. To ensure a silky texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a water bath by placing the flan mold or ramekins inside a larger baking dish and filling it with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the mold.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the water bath for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results. When ready to serve, carefully run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Invert onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel to cascade over the flan.
Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and a slice of lime for an extra touch of tropical flair.
Indulge in this Caramel Coconut Flan, a dessert that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica and brings a slice of paradise to your table. Enjoy the creamy richness and the delightful balance of sweetness with a hint of citrus—a perfect end to any meal.