• Published on 12-Jul-2024
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If you're looking for a dessert that combines creamy texture with a rich, caramel flavor, look no further than caramel custard pudding. This classic dessert, also known as flan, is a favorite in many households for its delightful taste and elegant presentation. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create this delicious treat right in your own kitchen. Let's dive into the recipe!


INGREDIENTS: 


FOR THE CARAMEL: 

  •  1 cup granulated sugar 

FOR THE CUSTARD:

  • 4 large eggs 
  • 2 cups whole milk 
  • 1/2 cup condensed milk 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • A pinch of salt

INSTRUCTIONS: 


STEP 1: PREPARE THE CARAMEL 

Start by making the caramel, which will form the delicious topping of your pudding. In a medium-sized saucepan, add 1 cup of granulated sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and let the sugar melt slowly, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The sugar will begin to clump before melting into a smooth, amber-colored liquid. This process requires patience, but it's crucial to achieve the right caramel consistency. 
Once the sugar has completely melted and reached a golden-brown color, quickly and carefully pour the caramel into a round baking dish. Tilt the dish to ensure the caramel evenly coats the bottom. Set the dish aside to let the caramel harden while you prepare the custard.


STEP 2: MAKE THE CUSTARD 


In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs until they are well beaten. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth. The condensed milk adds a rich sweetness to the custard, while the vanilla extract enhances its flavor. 

Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish. To ensure a smooth texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve as you pour it into the dish.  

STEP 3: BAKE THE PUDDING 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in a larger, shallow pan. Carefully fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath, or bain-marie, helps to cook the custard evenly and prevents it from curdling. 

Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. To check if the pudding is done, insert a knife or a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The custard will be slightly jiggly in the center but will firm up as it cools.


STEP 4: COOL AND SERVE 

Once the pudding is done baking, remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the pudding helps to set the custard and enhances its flavors. 

When you're ready to serve, run a knife around the edges of the pudding to loosen it from the dish. Place a serving plate over the top of the baking dish and quickly invert it, allowing the pudding to slide out and the caramel to drizzle over the top. The result is a beautiful, glossy caramel layer that perfectly complements the creamy custard.


TIPS FOR SUCCESS: 


  1. Be Patient with the Caramel: Melting sugar can be tricky, but patience is key. Stir constantly to avoid burning and be careful when handling hot caramel. 
  2. Use a Water Bath: The water bath ensures even cooking and prevents the custard from curdling or cracking. 
  3. Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the pudding to chill for several hours or overnight gives it the best texture and flavor. 

Caramel custard pudding is a timeless dessert that's sure to impress your family and friends. Its smooth, creamy texture combined with the rich caramel flavor makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy!