Classic Vanilla Flan

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold in the oven to warm.

2. 2

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and water over medium-high heat. Cook without stirring until sugar dissolves and turns deep amber, about 10–12 minutes. Swirl pan occasionally.

3. 3

   Immediately pour hot caramel into the warmed baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, gently whisk together eggs and egg yolks until just combined, being careful not to create foam.

5. 5

   Add sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

6. 6

   Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into the caramel-lined dish to remove any lumps.

7. 7

   Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Place in a large roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides of the dish.

8. 8

   Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

9. 9

   Remove from water bath and cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

10. 10

    To serve, run a thin knife around the edges to loosen. Place a serving plate over the dish and quickly invert. Let stand 1 minute before lifting off the mold.