1-Getting started with this flan recipe with creamy caramel involves a few key steps that make the process straightforward and enjoyable. First, preheat your oven to 350˚F and place a rack in the middle, then bring a kettle of water to a boil for the water bath. This sets the stage for even cooking and helps achieve that silky texture everyone loves.

2-Next, in a medium heavy saucepan, stir together 3/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water until dissolved, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring for 3-5 minutes. Once it turns golden, swirl the pan frequently until the caramel reaches a cinnamon color, which takes about 1-2 minutes, and remove from heat to swirl for another 30 seconds until it’s amber. Be careful with this step, as hot caramel can cause burns always handle it with caution.

3-Pour the caramel immediately into a 9-inch by 2-inch round non-stick cake pan, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly before it sets, and set the pan aside to cool slightly. In a blender, combine 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 12 oz evaporated milk, 1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract, 5 large eggs, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Blend on low for 1 minute to mix without creating foam, then strain through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth and pour over the caramel layer.

4-Cover the cake pan with foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the custard surface to avoid cracks. Place the pan inside a large roasting pan and carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan, going halfway up the sides of the cake pan without letting water enter the custard. Bake for 70-80 minutes until the flan jiggles slightly in the center but is mostly set if it’s still too liquid, bake for another 10 minutes.

5-After baking, remove from the oven, uncover, and transfer to a rack to cool to room temperature. Then, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set. To serve, run a knife around the edges, invert onto a rimmed platter, and tap if needed to release the flan. Garnish with optional strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries and spoon extra caramel sauce over slices as desired. For a related twist, check out our pumpkin spice latte recipe for more dessert inspiration that pairs well with flavors like caramel.