Coffee Flan Recipe
Coffee flan is a luxurious twist on the classic caramel flan. It combines the silky smoothness of traditional flan with the bold, aromatic flavor of coffee. This dessert is elegant yet simple, making it perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or when you want a café-style treat at home.
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
2 tablespoons water
For the Coffee Flan Custard:
-
1½ cups milk (whole milk preferred)
-
2 teaspoons instant coffee or espresso powder
-
3 large eggs
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring. Swirl the pan gently until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep golden brown. Immediately pour the caramel into a flan mold or individual ramekins, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Milk
Warm the milk in a saucepan over low heat. Add instant coffee and stir until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the milk to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until smooth. Slowly add the warm coffee milk while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Strain the Mixture
For an extra-smooth flan, strain the custard mixture through a fine sieve to remove bubbles and egg strands.
Step 5: Assemble
Carefully pour the custard over the hardened caramel in the mold(s).
Step 6: Bake in a Water Bath
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the flan mold in a baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the mold. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 8: Unmold and Serve
Run a knife around the edges of the flan. Invert onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel sauce to flow over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve coffee flan chilled, topped with whipped cream or chocolate shavings. It pairs beautifully with biscotti, cookies, or a cup of espresso.
Tips for Perfect Coffee Flan
-
Use espresso powder for stronger coffee flavor
-
Do not overbake; a gentle jiggle means it’s ready
-
Always use a water bath to prevent cracks
-
Chill well for best texture and flavor