Tropical Coconut Caramel Custard Flan
Indulge in the creamy decadence of this Tropical Coconut Caramel Custard Flan, a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of coconut. Inspired by the generous spirit of my former neighbors, Rafael and Madeleine De Paz, this recipe brings the flavors of the tropics to your table. The luscious custard is beautifully complemented by a golden caramel layer, making it a stunning centerpiece for any celebration. Ideal for gatherings or a special treat at home, this flan is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique taste and presentation.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
evaporated milk
1 can (12 ounces) (None)
condensed milk
1 can (14 ounces) (None)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (None)
large egg yolks
4 (Separate from whites)
cream cheese
12 ounces (Softened)
cream of coconut
1 can (15 ounces) (None)
sweetened flaked coconut
1 can (3.5 ounces) (None)
sugar
1 cup (None)
water
1/4 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place an inch of water in a large lasagna pan and place it in the oven to create a water bath for baking the flan.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk, condensed milk, cream of coconut, vanilla extract, and sweetened flaked coconut. Mix until well combined.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add the egg yolks to the milk mixture, stirring continuously.
4
Gently fold in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated. An electric mixer can be used to ensure a smooth consistency.
5
For the caramel, in a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then allow it to boil without stirring until it turns light brown. Be careful not to let it burn.
6
Quickly pour the caramel into an angel food or bundt pan, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Allow the caramel to harden for a few minutes.
7
Pour the prepared milk mixture over the hardened caramel in the pan.
8
Carefully place the filled cake pan into the preheated lasagna pan with water.
9
Bake in the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
10
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
11
Invert the flan onto a large serving platter, allowing the caramel to flow over the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving.
12
For presentation, garnish with fresh orange slices and mint leaves for a pop of color.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Coconut Caramel Custard Flan?
It is a creamy, decadent dessert combining the richness of cream cheese with the sweet, tropical flavors of coconut and a golden caramel topping.
Who inspired this Tropical Coconut Caramel Custard Flan recipe?
The recipe was inspired by the neighbors of the creator, Rafael and Madeleine De Paz.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total for this flan recipe.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What is the purpose of the lasagna pan in this recipe?
The lasagna pan is used to create a water bath, which helps the flan bake evenly and stay creamy.
What types of milk are used in the custard mixture?
The recipe uses one 12-ounce can of evaporated milk and one 14-ounce can of condensed milk.
How much cream cheese is needed?
You will need 12 ounces of softened cream cheese.
What is the difference between cream of coconut and coconut milk in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for a 15-ounce can of cream of coconut, which is sweeter and thicker than standard coconut milk.
How are the eggs prepared for the custard?
You need 4 large egg yolks, which should be separated from the whites and whisked until smooth.
Does the recipe include shredded coconut?
Yes, it includes one 3.5-ounce can of sweetened flaked coconut mixed directly into the custard.
How do I make the caramel layer?
Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan over medium-high heat, boiling until it turns light brown.
Should I stir the caramel while it is boiling?
No, once the sugar dissolves, you should allow it to boil without stirring to prevent crystallization.
What kind of baking pan should I use for the flan?
You can use either an angel food pan or a bundt pan.
How do I coat the pan with caramel?
Quickly pour the hot caramel into the pan and swirl it to coat the bottom evenly before it hardens.
Can I use an electric mixer for the custard?
Yes, an electric mixer can be used to ensure the softened cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
How long does the flan need to bake?
The flan should bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
How can I tell if the flan is finished baking?
The flan is done when it is set and a knife inserted into the custard comes out clean.
How long should the flan cool before refrigeration?
Let the flan cool at room temperature for 1 hour after removing it from the oven.
How do I serve the flan to show the caramel?
Invert the flan onto a large serving platter so the caramel flows over the top.
How long must the flan be chilled before serving?
It should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours.
What are the recommended garnishes for presentation?
Garnish with fresh orange slices and mint leaves for a professional look and a pop of color.
Is there vanilla in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Can I use the egg whites?
This specific recipe only calls for the yolks; the whites are not used in the custard.
What makes this flan 'Tropical'?
The combination of cream of coconut and sweetened flaked coconut gives it its tropical flavor profile.
What should I do if the caramel hardens too fast?
The caramel is supposed to harden for a few minutes in the pan before you pour the milk mixture over it.
What is the texture of this flan?
Because of the cream cheese and coconut, it has a richer, denser, and more velvety texture than traditional flan.
Is water used in the custard?
No, water is only used for the caramel syrup and the water bath.
Can this flan be served at room temperature?
It is best served chilled after at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
What tags describe this dessert?
Tags include flan, dessert, coconut, caramel, cream cheese, tropical, sweet, holiday, and special occasion.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday gathering?
Yes, its unique presentation and rich flavor make it an ideal centerpiece for celebrations and special occasions.