Classic Vanilla Flan

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
• 1/4 cup water
• 4 large eggs
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold in the oven to warm.
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. Immediately pour hot caramel into the warmed baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
4. In a large bowl, gently whisk together eggs and egg yolks until just combined, being careful not to create foam.
5. Add sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
6. Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into the caramel-lined dish to remove any lumps.
7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Place in a large roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides of the dish.
8. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from water bath and cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
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.