Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla – Easy Recipe

Learn how to make the best Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla with this authentic, creamy, and delicious recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this flan is rich, smooth, and easy to make!

Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla is a beloved dessert known for its creamy texture, rich caramel topping, and delightful vanilla flavor. This traditional flan is often served during holidays, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat after a meal. In this post, I’ll guide you through an easy and authentic recipe to transport your taste buds to Puerto Rico.

My abuela and her sister were the queens of making Puerto Rican flan. They always had caramel ready to use in their refrigerator. Everyone around in the neighborhood enjoyed them, especially during the holidays. One thing that I never asked them about was just how tedious making the caramel was. Maybe because I was too busy eating the flan instead of paying attention. This is something that I regret because making the caramel was a struggle until my daughter found this tutorial from Buen Provecho TV This tutorial is great and explains step by step how to make caramelo. For my Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla caramel, I added more water than you will see in his video but it was very helpful.

Ingredients for Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons of water

For the Flan de Vainilla Custard:

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 5 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Puerto Rican Flan

1: First, Make the Caramel for the Flan

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
2. Stir gently until sugar dissolves, then keep stirring until you get a syrup consistency.
3. Keep stirring and trust the process. Add a few tablespoons of water if needed.
4. The sugar will turn a golden amber color (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
6. Set aside and allow it to harden while you prepare the flan custard.

2: Secondly Prepare the Flan Custard

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. For an extra smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove air bubbles.

3: Then, Assemble & Bake

1. Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
2. Place the dish inside a larger roasting pan, then carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish.
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the flan is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

4: Lastly, Cool & Serve

1. Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
3. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan, place a plate over the baking dish, and flip it over to release the caramel sauce on top.

Tips for the Best Puerto Rican Flan

Don’t Overcook – The flan should have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. Overcooking can make it rubbery.
Use a Water Bath – This prevents cracks and ensures a silky texture.
Strain the Custard – Straining removes bubbles and gives the flan a smooth consistency.
Chill Overnight – Letting the flan sit in the fridge overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Flan Ahead of Time?

Yes! Flan tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop.

2. How Do I Store Flan?

Store the flan covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I Make Flan Without a Water Bath?

A water bath is highly recommended for a creamy texture, but if you skip it, the flan may turn out slightly firm or have cracks.

4. Can I Use a Different Milk?

For a dairy-free version, substitute with coconut milk and coconut condensed milk, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Why Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla is Special

Without any doubt, flan is a dessert that brings families together. Whether it’s for Navidad (Christmas), Thanksgiving, birthdays, or a simple Sunday meal, Puerto Rican flan is a staple in Latin households. The combination of sweet caramel and creamy vanilla custard makes it an irresistible, classic dessert that everyone loves.

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Conclusion

To conclude now that you have this easy and authentic Puerto Rican Flan de Vainilla recipe, it’s time to try it yourself! This smooth, creamy, and caramelized dessert is sure to impress your family and guests.

Have you made flan before? Let me know in the comments and tag your creations on Instagram with #thehungrydragonfly

Other Puerto Rican Recipes You Need to Try:

Bizcocho Mojadito Puertorriqueño – Ponqué

Puerto Rican Pan de Mallorca; Ensaimadas

Puerto Rican Pastelillos de Guayaba – Guava Turnovers

Vegan Quesitos – Puerto Rican Cream Cheese Pastries

If you try this recipe, let me know what you think! Leave a comment below. Also, don’t forget to take a picture and share it on my Facebook page or tag it #thehungrydragonfly on Instagram! I love seeing your creations!