Delicious Flan Recipe Baked in a Glass Pan for Perfect Creamy Texture

Flan in a Glass Pan A Perfect Dessert Delight

Flan, a dessert beloved across various cultures, has found its way into kitchens around the world, captivating dessert lovers with its creamy texture and caramel sweetness. Traditionally made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, flan is baked in a water bath for a gentle cooking process that yields a smooth custard. While flan can be prepared in many ways, using a glass pan for baking is not only practical but enhances the aesthetic appeal of this delightful treat.

The Allure of Glass Baking

One of the primary advantages of using a glass pan is its ability to conduct heat evenly. This is crucial for delicate desserts like flan, where uneven cooking can lead to curdling or a rubbery texture. Glass pans provide a consistent temperature, ensuring that every bite of flan is as luscious as the last. Furthermore, glass baking dishes allow you to keep an eye on the cooking process. You can easily monitor the caramel bubbling and the custard setting without needing to open the oven door.

In addition to its practical benefits, a glass pan offers an opportunity for beautiful presentation. After the flan is baked and chilled, you can serve it directly from the dish, showcasing the stunning golden caramel on top and the smooth texture beneath. The transparency of the glass highlights the layers of the dessert, making it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering.

The Recipe Flan in a Glass Pan

- 1 cup of granulated sugar (for caramel) - 4 large eggs - 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk - 1 can (12 ounces) of evaporated milk - 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract - A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the sugar until it turns a deep amber color, swirling the pan gently to prevent burning. Once melted, quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of a glass baking pan, tilting the pan to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.

2. Blend the Flan Mixture In a blender, combine the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.

3. Pour the Mixture Once the caramel has hardened, carefully pour the flan mixture over the hardened caramel in the glass pan.

4. Prepare the Water Bath Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the glass pan inside a larger baking dish. Fill the larger dish with boiling water halfway up the sides of the glass pan, creating a water bath that will help cook the flan gently.

5. Bake Bake the flan for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve Allow the flan to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan, then invert it onto a serving platter. The caramel will flow over the flan, creating a beautiful sauce. Slice and enjoy!

The Final Touch

Flan in a glass pan is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of textures and flavors. The creamy custard, complemented by the rich caramel, creates a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Serving flan in a glass pan not only enhances its visual appeal but also allows for easy serving and clean-up.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, flan in a glass pan is sure to impress. With its elegant presentation and delightful taste, this dessert can bring a touch of sophistication to any meal. So, gather your ingredients, grab your glass pan, and indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness of homemade flan!