Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these 18 creamy flan recipes that put a unique spin on the classic! From decadent chocolate hazelnut to bright and citrusy orange zest, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle nuances, our twist on the traditional recipe is sure to impress.
Start with a classic vanilla bean flan, then experiment with creative flavor combinations like coconut milk and caramel drizzle or pumpkin spice and cinnamon. And don’t forget about the more adventurous options, such as matcha green tea, salted caramel, and chai spiced – there’s never been a better time to get creative in the kitchen!
Classic Vanilla Bean Flan
This classic Spanish dessert is a creamy and smooth delight, perfect for any occasion. With its caramelized sugar crust and velvety vanilla bean custard, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish filled with hot water to about halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Flan with Caramel Drizzle
This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the smoothness of flan, topped with a velvety caramel drizzle. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, and kosher salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, coconut milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Espresso Infused Flan
This recipe combines the rich flavors of espresso and caramel to create a unique and decadent dessert perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, milk, and salt until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter.
4. Gradually pour the cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Stir in espresso and caramel sauce.
6. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Flan for Fall
As the seasons change, warm up with this creamy and aromatic Pumpkin Spice Flan. This unique dessert combines the comfort of flan with the cozy flavors of fall.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Stir in egg yolks and pour into ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Zest and Cinnamon Flan
A twist on the classic flan, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor from orange zest and a warm touch of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Zest of 1 orange, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and orange juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Flan
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent combination of chocolate and hazelnuts, wrapped up in a silky-smooth flan. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, and egg yolks until thick and creamy.
3. Add melted butter, milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (6-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Sprinkle hazelnuts and chocolate over the top of each flan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Flan
Experience the harmony of Japanese green tea and creamy flan in this unique dessert recipe. This Matcha Green Tea Flan combines the subtle bitterness of matcha with the richness of caramelized sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in matcha powder.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm matcha mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salted Caramel Flan with Sea Salt
This rich and creamy flan gets a touch of sophistication from the salty caramel sauce and crunchy sea salt crust. Perfect for dessert or as a unique treat to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fleur de sel or flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Drizzle caramel sauce over the flan and sprinkle with sea salt.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Curd Flan with Berry Compote
Brighten up your dessert menu with this refreshing and tangy Lemon Curd Flan, topped with a sweet and fruity Berry Compote.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice.
4. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the curd mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
7. Meanwhile, combine berries, sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juice and mixture thickens slightly.
8. Serve warm flans topped with berry compote.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for flan, 10-15 minutes for compote.
Chai Spiced Flan with Honey Glaze
Elevate your dessert game with this unique fusion of Indian spices and classic flan, topped with a sweet honey glaze. This Chai Spiced Flan is perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 6 large eggs, separated
– 1 tbsp honey
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool.
8. Drizzle with honey glaze (heat the honey in a saucepan over low heat until smooth and syrupy) just before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Pudding Flan
Elevate your dessert game with this unique fusion of creamy banana pudding and caramelized flan. This rich and indulgent treat is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, and salt until dissolved.
3. Add sliced bananas and vanilla extract; stir gently.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until light and fluffy.
5. Gradually pour warm banana mixture into egg yolks, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the custard mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tiramisu Inspired Flan
A modern twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Tiramisu-inspired flan combines the creamy texture of traditional flan with the bold flavors of espresso and ladyfingers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 6-8 ladyfingers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and stir in espresso and vanilla extract.
4. Pour into 6-8 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Arrange crushed ladyfingers on top of each flan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Almond and Honey Flan
This creamy flan is infused with the rich flavors of almonds and honey, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its smooth texture and delicate sweetness, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and melted butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly among the ramekins.
6. Drizzle honey over the almonds.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava and Cream Cheese Flan
This unique flan recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized sugar with the tanginess of guava puree and the creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for those looking to add a twist to traditional flan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup guava puree (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and cook, without stirring, until caramel turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and guava puree.
5. Pour egg mixture into individual ramekins or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with caramel sauce.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes (individual ramekins) or 50-55 minutes (larger dish).
7. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-55 minutes
Rum Raisin Flan with Whipped Cream
Experience the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this creamy and decadent Rum Raisin Flan, topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 1/4 cup raisins, chopped
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks until well combined.
4. Stir in dark rum and chopped raisins.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Whip heavy whipping cream with a pinch of sugar until stiff peaks form.
9. Serve chilled flans topped with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Swirl Flan
This creamy flan dessert is infused with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a delightful twist on the classic Spanish custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract. Temper the egg mixture by gradually pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the custard mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of each flan. Drizzle with honey.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Flan
This unique flan combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the delicate essence of rosewater, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pistachio extract
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio extract and rosewater.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups.
5. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican Cajeta (Goat’s Milk Caramel) Flan
This creamy flan is infused with the rich flavor of goat’s milk caramel, a traditional Mexican delight. A perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup goat’s milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cajeta (goat’s milk caramel sauce)
– Ramekins or small baking dishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together goat’s milk, sugar, egg yolks, and salt until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and whisk again.
4. Pour the mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Drizzle cajeta over the top of each flan.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your flan game to the next level with these 18 creamy recipes that put a twist on the classic dessert. From classic vanilla bean to innovative flavors like matcha green tea and chai spiced, there’s something for everyone. Add some caramel drizzle or whipped cream to give it an extra boost of flavor. Try pairing orange zest and cinnamon flan with a crunchy pecan crust or go bold with a rum raisin flan with whipped cream. Whatever your taste buds crave, this collection has got you covered!
