Coconut Caramel Flan: A Tropical Delight

Coconut Caramel Flan is a luxurious dessert that brings together the creamy richness of coconut and the sweet elegance of caramel in every bite. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or when you want to enjoy a dessert that combines both tradition and tropical flair.

Growing up, my grandmother would always make her signature flan for family gatherings.

While her version was classic, I wanted to take it up a notch by adding coconut for a more tropical twist.

After many trials, I discovered the perfect balance of coconut and caramel flavors that make this flan extra special.

Now, it’s one of my go-to desserts for both holiday celebrations and casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Rich and Creamy Texture: The coconut milk creates a velvety smoothness that melts in your mouth, offering a luxurious experience with every bite.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of caramel and the subtle hint of coconut make this flan irresistibly delicious.
3. Easy to Make: This recipe requires just a few ingredients, making it simple to whip up without any hassle.
4. Impressive Presentation: The glossy caramel top and smooth flan are sure to impress your guests and make your dessert table stand out.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
• 1/4 cup water (for caramel)
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by making the caramel. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture simmer. Watch closely as it turns into a golden amber color (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Immediately pour the hot caramel into a round baking dish or individual ramekins, swirling it around to coat the bottom. Let it cool for a minute to harden.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
5. Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared dish, over the caramel.
6. Place the baking dish or ramekins into a larger pan filled with hot water (about halfway up the sides of the dish). This is called a water bath and helps cook the flan evenly.
7. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45-50 minutes or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Allow the flan to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Ensure the caramel doesn’t burn by keeping an eye on the heat and color change. It can turn from golden to burnt very quickly.
2. Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
3. Let the flan cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation on the surface.
4. If you’re using individual ramekins, check for doneness after 30-35 minutes, as smaller portions cook faster.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 8 servings)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 90mg

Common Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, this coconut caramel flan can be made a day or two ahead and kept in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?
   While coconut milk gives it a unique flavor, you can substitute with whole milk for a more traditional taste.
3. How can I make the caramel less sweet?
   You can reduce the amount of sugar in the caramel, but remember that it will still have some sweetness from the coconut milk.
4. Can I make this without eggs?
   Yes, there are egg substitutes available that you can use to make this recipe egg-free, but the texture might differ slightly.

Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or treating yourself to a decadent dessert, Coconut Caramel Flan is a delightful choice.

Its rich, velvety texture, combined with the tropical flavor of coconut and the sweetness of caramel, will surely win over your taste buds.

Enjoy this delicious dessert and share the love with family and friends!