Name: Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: ½ cup granulated sugar; 12 large egg yolks; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk; 340 g evaporated milk; 1 tsp lemon extract; 6 cups boiling water

Experience the delightful fusion of creamy leche flan with a zesty twist of lemon. This dessert combines the rich, velvety texture of traditional leche flan with a refreshing hint of citrus, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Photos of Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, which provide the creamy base for the flan. Additionally, lemon extract is used to impart a distinct citrus flavor. If you don't have these at home, you’ll need to pick them up at the supermarket.

Ingredients For Leche Flan With Lemon

granulated sugar: Used to create a rich, amber-colored caramel base.

egg yolks: Provide the rich and creamy texture essential for flan.

sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and body to the custard.

evaporated milk: Contributes to the creamy texture without adding extra sweetness.

lemon extract: Gives the flan a refreshing citrus flavor.

boiling water: Necessary for the water bath to ensure even cooking.

One reader, Biddie Long says:

This leche flan with lemon recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The lemon extract adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the rich, creamy custard. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious!

Biddie Long

Techniques Required for Making Leche Flan with Lemon

How to melt sugar into caramel: Heat granulated sugar in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it melts into an amber-colored caramel. How to make custard: Whisk egg yolks and condensed milk together, then add evaporated milk and lemon extract, and whisk to incorporate. How to create a water bath: Set the loaf pan in a larger baking dish and carefully pour boiling water into the baking dish, ensuring not to splash any into the flan. How to invert flan: Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the flan, then invert onto a platter to serve.

How To Make Leche Flan With Lemon

This leche flan is a classic favorite Filipino dessert made with caramel and added with the zesty taste of lemon. This creamy dessert is irresistible.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupgranulated sugar
12large egg yolks
14ozsweetened condensed milk
340gevaporated milk
1tsplemon extract
6cupsboiling water,for water bath

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Heat a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the granulated sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts into an amber-colored caramel for 5 to 6 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir until the sugar is fully melted.
Remove the pan from the heat and carefully pour the caramel into a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let the caramel cool for 5 minutes while you make the custard.
Add the egg yolks and condensed milk to a large bowl and whisk to combine then add the evaporated milk and lemon extract and whisk to incorporate.
Pour the custard into the pan with the caramel. Cover the pan with foil.
Set the loaf pan in a 9×13-inch baking dish and carefully pour the boiling water into the baking dish, taking care not to splash any into the flan.
Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the flan is fully set.
Remove the flan from the oven, lift the loaf pan from the water bath, and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight.
When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the flan, then invert onto a platter, slice, and serve.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1072.47kcal
Fat: 14.30g
Saturated Fat: 7.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.34g
Carbohydrates: 232.18g
Fiber: 0.02g
Sugar: 231.01g
Protein: 10.87g
Cholesterol: 305.87mg
Sodium: 129.42mg
Calcium: 292.19mg
Potassium: 345.39mg
Iron: 0.97mg
Vitamin A: 161.50µg
Vitamin C: 2.39mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Leche Flan with Lemon

To achieve a smooth and creamy leche flan, make sure to strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the caramel-lined pan. This will remove any egg solids and ensure a silky texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Leche Flan with Lemon

Prepare the caramel in advance: Make the caramel a day ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of preparation.

Use a blender: Blend the egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lemon extract together for a smoother and quicker mix.

Boil water in a kettle: Use an electric kettle to boil water faster for the water bath.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while preparing the ingredients to save waiting time.

Use a silicone spatula: A silicone spatula can help scrape every bit of the caramel and custard mixture efficiently.

Substitute Ingredients For Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe

granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness level and can add a slight caramel flavor.
large egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can provide a similar creamy texture and is a good vegan alternative.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk offers a similar sweetness and consistency, with a hint of coconut flavor.
evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can mimic the creamy texture of evaporated milk and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
lemon extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can provide a different but complementary flavor profile if lemon is not available.
boiling water - Substitute with steaming water: Steaming water can be used in place of boiling water to create the necessary steam for cooking the flan.

Presenting Leche Flan with Lemon

Use a sleek, white plate: Choose a minimalist, white plate to highlight the rich color of the leche flan and the golden caramel topping.
Slice with precision: Cut the leche flan into even, clean slices to showcase its smooth texture and ensure each portion looks identical.
Add a citrus twist: Garnish each slice with a thin, elegant twist of lemon zest to complement the lemon extract in the flan and add a pop of color.
Drizzle extra caramel: Lightly drizzle some additional caramel sauce around the plate to enhance the visual appeal and provide extra flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few small, edible flowers, such as violets or pansies, around the leche flan for a touch of sophistication and color contrast.
Use a quenelle of whipped cream: Add a small quenelle of lightly sweetened whipped cream beside the flan to balance the richness and add a creamy texture.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with powdered sugar using a fine sieve to create a delicate, snowy effect.
Serve with a citrus coulis: Prepare a lemon coulis by blending fresh lemon juice with a bit of sugar and drizzle it artistically around the plate for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Add a mint leaf: Place a small, fresh mint leaf on top of each slice of leche flan to add a refreshing aroma and a touch of green.
Use a textured base: Serve the plate on a textured placemat or wooden board to add an element of rustic elegance and contrast with the smoothness of the leche flan.

Essential Tools for Making Leche Flan with Lemon

Medium skillet: Used to melt the granulated sugar into an amber-colored caramel.
9x5-inch loaf pan: The container for the caramel and custard mixture.
Large bowl: For whisking together the egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lemon extract.
Whisk: To combine the ingredients for the custard.
Foil: To cover the loaf pan while baking.
9x13-inch baking dish: To create a water bath for the loaf pan.
Kettle or pot: To boil water for the water bath.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F for baking the flan.
Knife: To run around the edges of the pan to loosen the flan before inverting.
Platter: For inverting and serving the flan.

Storing and Freezing Leche Flan with Lemon

To store leche flan, let it cool completely to room temperature after baking. Once cooled, cover the flan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the leche flan. After cooling, wrap the flan tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets. Then, wrap it in a layer of aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw frozen leche flan, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature, as this can cause the texture to become grainy.
When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it from the pan. Invert onto a serving plate and let the caramel sauce drizzle over the top.
If you notice any separation or watery texture after thawing, you can gently heat the flan in the microwave or in a water bath until it smooths out again.
The lemon flavor in this leche flan may become slightly muted after freezing and thawing, but it will still taste delicious.

How To Reheat Leche Flan with Lemon Leftovers

The best way to reheat leftover leche flan is to use a water bath method. Place the flan in a heatproof dish and set it in a larger pan filled with hot water. Heat the water over medium-low heat until the flan is warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This gentle reheating method helps to prevent the custard from curdling or becoming rubbery.
Another option is to microwave the leftover leche flan, but it requires a bit more attention. Cut the flan into individual portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat the flan in 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval. Be careful not to overheat the flan, as it can cause the texture to become grainy or rubbery.
If you prefer a slightly caramelized top on your reheated leche flan, you can use a kitchen torch or place the flan under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye on the flan to prevent burning, and remove it from the heat once the top is lightly browned and bubbly.
To enhance the lemon flavor of your leftover flan, consider garnishing it with fresh lemon zest or a dollop of lemon curd before serving. This will add a bright, citrusy note to the creamy custard and elevate the overall taste experience.
Lastly, if you find that your leftover leche flan has become a bit watery or loose after storing, you can try blotting the surface gently with a paper towel before reheating. This will help to absorb any excess moisture and maintain the flan's smooth, velvety texture.

Interesting Fact About Leche Flan with Lemon

A unique twist in this leche flan recipe is the addition of lemon extract, which adds a refreshing citrus note to the traditional creamy custard.

Is Making Leche Flan with Lemon Cost-Effective?

Creating leche flan with a hint of lemon is a delightful and cost-effective dessert. The main ingredients—sugar, egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk—are relatively inexpensive and readily available. The addition of lemon extract adds a refreshing twist without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $6-$8 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Leche Flan with Lemon Healthy or Unhealthy?

The leche flan with lemon recipe is a delicious dessert, but it is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients, such as sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar, are high in calories, fat, and sugar. The recipe also uses a significant number of egg yolks, which are high in cholesterol. While the lemon extract adds a nice flavor, it does not contribute much in terms of nutritional value.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the caramel and the custard mixture
Replace some of the egg yolks with egg whites to lower the cholesterol content
Use low-fat or fat-free versions of the condensed and evaporated milk
Incorporate more fresh lemon juice and zest instead of relying solely on lemon extract
Serve smaller portions and pair the flan with fresh fruit to add fiber and nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the creamy texture and delightful flavor of leche flan while reducing the overall calorie, fat, and sugar content. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in desserts, and making small changes to recipes can help create a more balanced and healthier approach to eating.

Editor's Opinion on This Leche Flan Recipe

This leche flan recipe with a hint of lemon offers a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The lemon extract adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the rich, creamy custard. The caramelization process is straightforward, and the water bath ensures a smooth texture. However, using a loaf pan might make it challenging to achieve an even bake. Consider using a round or oval mold for better results. Overall, it's a sophisticated and flavorful dessert that's sure to impress.

Enhance Your Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Complement the creamy leche flan with the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple skewers. The caramelized edges of the pineapple will pair beautifully with the lemon-infused custard, creating a tropical symphony in your mouth.

Mango Salsa: Add a burst of freshness with a vibrant mango salsa. The juicy mangoes, mixed with a hint of cilantro and a squeeze of lime, will provide a zesty contrast to the rich, silky leche flan.

Coconut Rice: Serve a side of fragrant coconut rice to enhance the tropical theme. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of the rice will harmonize with the lemon notes in the flan, making each bite a delightful experience.

Avocado Salad: Balance the richness of the leche flan with a refreshing avocado salad. The creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and tangy vinaigrette will cleanse your palate and prepare you for another indulgent bite of dessert.

Passion Fruit Sorbet: Finish your meal with a scoop of passion fruit sorbet. The tart and tangy sorbet will cut through the sweetness of the leche flan, leaving your taste buds refreshed and satisfied.

Similar Recipes to Leche Flan with Lemon

Classic Creme Brulee: Indulge in the rich and creamy dessert that features a silky custard base topped with a layer of hard caramel. Perfect for a special occasion or a delightful treat after dinner.

Mango Panna Cotta: Experience the tropical flavors of mango in this smooth and creamy Italian dessert. The panna cotta is infused with fresh mango puree and topped with a vibrant mango sauce.

Coconut Flan: Enjoy a twist on the traditional flan with the addition of coconut milk. This dessert is creamy, rich, and has a subtle coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel topping.

Lemon Cheesecake: Savor the tangy and sweet flavors of lemon in this creamy cheesecake. The lemon zest and juice add a refreshing twist to the classic cheesecake, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Orange Custard: Delight in the citrusy goodness of orange in this smooth and velvety custard. The fresh orange juice and zest give this dessert a bright and refreshing flavor.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Leche Flan with Lemon

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms is complemented by a rich and creamy cheese filling. Add a touch of garlic and herbs to elevate the taste. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm to enjoy the melted cheese and the savory stuffing.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Serve on toasted baguette slices for a crunchy base that perfectly complements the juicy topping. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any party spread.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Infuse your chicken breasts with a burst of citrus flavor by marinating them in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Serve alongside a vibrant quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing and balanced meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a colorful and nutritious dish by filling bell peppers with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Add a touch of spices and herbs to enhance the flavors. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a wholesome dinner.

Why trust this Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe:

This leche flan with a twist of lemon is a tried-and-true recipe that combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional flan with a refreshing citrus note. The use of sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk ensures a smooth and velvety custard, while the caramel adds a delightful sweetness. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust this recipe for a dessert that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Want to share your experience making this Leche Flan With Lemon Recipe or have any tips to perfect it? Join our Baking and Desserts forum and let's discuss!

FAQ:

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract?

Yes, you can use lemon juice instead of lemon extract. However, lemon extract has a more concentrated flavor, so you might need to use more lemon juice to achieve the same taste. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice and adjust to your preference.

How do I know when the flan is fully set?

The flan is fully set when it has a slight jiggle in the center but is firm around the edges. You can also insert a toothpick or knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the flan is ready.

Can I use a different pan instead of a loaf pan?

Absolutely! You can use any oven-safe pan or mold. Just make sure it fits comfortably in your water bath setup. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the size and shape of the pan.

What if my caramel hardens before I pour the custard?

If your caramel hardens before you pour the custard, don't worry. The heat from the custard will soften the caramel as it bakes. Just make sure to pour the custard gently to avoid splashing.

How long should I refrigerate the flan before serving?

It's best to refrigerate the flan overnight to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors. If you're in a hurry, a minimum of 4 hours should be enough, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and taste.