Spanish Crème Caramel – Easy & Delicious Flan Recipe

This classic Spanish Crème Caramel (also known as Flan) is one of the most loved desserts in Spain and Latin America. It features a silky smooth custard with a rich, golden caramel sauce on top. The texture is incredibly creamy and melts in your mouth — perfect for any occasion.

The Spanish version is lighter and more delicate than others, making it a favorite at home and in restaurants. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this elegant dessert that always impresses guests.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Caramel:

• ¾ cup sugar

For the Custard:

• 1 can evaporated milk (380g)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (185g)
• 5 egg yolks + 2 whole eggs
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 100g cream cheese (Philadelphia or similar)
• ½ cap white vinegar (optional, helps with texture)

How to Make Spanish Crème Caramel

1. Make the caramel: In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns into a beautiful golden caramel. Pour it immediately into your baking mold or ramekins, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Let it cool and harden.
2. Prepare the custard: In a blender, add the evaporated milk, condensed milk, cream cheese, whole eggs, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any air bubbles for a perfectly silky texture.
4. Pour the custard gently over the hardened caramel in the mold.
5. Cover the mold with aluminum foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water (water bath / bain-marie).
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
8. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate. Garnish with fresh strawberries or shredded coconut if desired. Serve cold.

Pro Tips for Perfect Spanish Crème Caramel

• Strain the mixture well to achieve that signature silky smooth texture.
• The water bath is essential to cook the flan gently and prevent cracking.
• Do not overbake — the center should still have a slight wobble when you take it out.
• Chilling overnight gives the best flavor and makes unmolding much easier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Spanish Crème Caramel cold, directly from the fridge. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a few toasted nuts. It's the perfect ending to any meal.

This easy and delicious Spanish Crème Caramel is creamy, rich, and full of classic caramel flavor. A timeless dessert that never goes out of style and always brings smiles to the table.

Enjoy every spoonful!