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    Home » Recipe FAQs

    Frequently Asked Questions About Leche Flan

    Published: Mar 16, 2022 by Nora Reyes · This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. ·

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    Leche Flan is a rich, creamy dessert similar to flan. If you've never tried or are familiar with it, you probably have some questions.

    Learn more about leche flan with tips to make it better the next time you make it.

    Pouring caramel sauce over the slice of Leche Flan.
    What is leche flan?

    Leche flan translates into English as "milk custard." It is an egg-based custard with caramel sauce. It contains evaporated milk, condensed milk, and mostly egg yolks.

    Why is leche flan called leche?

    It is known as leche flan because it is made with milk — both evaporated milk and condensed milk. Other versions of flan combine cream and milk, such as the Spanish/Mexican flan and the French crème caramel.

    Is Filipino flan the same as Mexican flan?

    They are very similar. The Filipino version of flan uses more egg yolks and is usually steamed over the stovetop.

    Mexican/Spanish Flan is made with whole eggs and cooked in a water bath. Flan Napolitano is a version made with cream cheese.

    Can I use brown sugar to make the caramel?

    Yes, you can use brown sugar to make caramel. While it has more flavor than granulated sugar, it tends to burn faster and yield a darker caramel.

    How to make leche flan without llanera?

    You can use metal, ceramic, or glass pans as long as they are the right size and shape. I like to use cake pans or ramekins for individual portions.

    How do you know when leche flan is cooked?

    When the leche flan is set and firm to the touch, it's ready. There should be a slight wobble when you gently jiggle the pan. If you insert a knife or toothpick in the center, it should come out clean.

    What texture should flan be?

    A perfect flan should have a creamy and smooth texture.

    Why is my flan spongy?

    Custard-based desserts require low and slow cooking. If you overcook or cook it too fast, the mixture will curdle and become spongy or grainy.

    To regulate the temperature, use a water bath when baking or steam over simmering (not boiling) water.

    How do keep flan from cracking?

    Maintain a constant low temperature when baking flan. If the temperature is too high, the flan will crack. The water in a bain-marie or water bath insulates the custard. It prevents it from cooking too quickly.

    Why does my flan taste eggy?

    Using too many eggs or overcooking the flan will make it taste eggy. Make sure your egg-to-dairy ratio is correct. Add vanilla or citrus to enhance its flavor.

    Why use egg whites in leche flan?

    The egg whites in the custard add texture and help it set. Without it, the custard will be very creamy.

    Why bake the flan in a water bath?

    As with any custard-based dessert, gentle cooking is crucial to keep the custard smooth.

    A water bath, also called a bain-marie, regulates the heat and prevents it from overcooking. It will also prevent your flan from becoming rubbery or cracked.

    What happens if water gets in the flan?

    Water can ruin the flan's texture. When making a water bath, pour the water slowly to prevent splashing into the custard.

    If you're steaming on the stovetop, cover the molds so trapped steam doesn't get into the flan.

    Can I steam the flan?

    Yes, of course. Cover the molds with aluminum foil and steam over simmering (not boiling) water for about 30 minutes.

    To check if it's done, insert a toothpick or knife into the center. It should come out clean when it's ready.

    How long should the flan cool before refrigerating?

    Cool the flan in its mold before covering and refrigerating. It will take about 30 minutes, or until it is no longer warm to the touch. Moisture that condenses can be unpleasant.

    How long can you keep flan in the fridge?

    Flan can be kept in the fridge for about 3 days. Take into consideration how it was handled or how long it was left out before being refrigerated. Please use your best judgment.

    How to defrost flan?

    Place the flan in the refrigerator to defrost or thaw for a few hours. If you want it sooner, you can leave it at room temperature. It should be ready in about an hour.

    How do you fix undercooked custard?

    Undercooked custard won't set and will be runny. The best way to fix it is to bake or steam it longer. It should be set on top, but still jiggly in the center when gently shaken.

    What other Filipino desserts go well with Leche Flan?

    Along with Leche Flan, you can enjoy Halo-Halo, a colorful mix of shaved ice, fruits, and beans; the creamy coconut dessert Buko Pandan; and Cassava Cake, a baked treat made with grated cassava and coconut milk.

    I hope you enjoyed this list of frequently asked questions about Leche Flan and feel confident making it yourself, if you haven't already! It is so simple to make and only requires a few ingredients.

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    Hi, I'm Nora! 

    Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

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