French Antilles Coconut Flan

This delightful dessert hails from the French Antilles, combining the rich creaminess of flan with the tropical flair of coconut. It’s a decadent treat perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence after dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and grated coconut brings a burst of tropical goodness to your dessert table.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe easy to whip up.
• Impressive Yet Easy: Despite its elegant appearance and flavor, this flan is straightforward to prepare.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: It’s ideal for preparing in advance, so it’s ready to serve whenever you need it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Eggs
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Coconut milk
• Grated coconut
• Vanilla extract
• Granulated sugar (for the caramel)

Directions

1. Prepare the Caramel: In a saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat until golden brown. Quickly pour the caramel into a flan mold or baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly. Let it cool and harden.
2. Make the Flan Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, grated coconut, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble: Pour the flan mixture over the hardened caramel in the mold.
4. Bake: Place the flan mold in a larger baking dish filled with water to create a water bath. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–50 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Chill: Let the flan cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve: Run a knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the flan, then invert it onto a serving plate. Serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6–8 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Chill Time: 4+ hours

Variations

• Spiced Coconut Flan: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flan mixture for a warm spice flavor.
• Chocolate Coconut Flan: Drizzle melted chocolate over the flan before serving for an indulgent twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative for a completely dairy-free dessert.
• Individual Servings: Pour the mixture into ramekins for single-serving portions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Flan is best served chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, microwave individual portions for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, but it will make the flan richer and creamier. Adjust the sweetness if needed.

2. How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?

Work quickly and pour the caramel immediately into the mold once it reaches a golden brown color.

3. Can I make this flan without a water bath?

The water bath ensures even cooking and prevents the flan from cracking. It’s highly recommended.

4. What type of coconut should I use?

Shredded or grated unsweetened coconut works best for this recipe.

5. Can I freeze coconut flan?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the flan when thawed.

6. How can I tell if the flan is done baking?

The flan is done when it is set but slightly jiggly in the center, and a knife inserted comes out clean.

7. Can I use a different mold?

Yes, you can use any oven-safe mold or dish, such as a loaf pan or round baking dish.

8. How long should I chill the flan?

Chill the flan for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.

9. Can I add fruit to the flan?

Yes, you can add thinly sliced fruit, like pineapple or mango, for a fruity variation.

10. What’s the best way to slice flan?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat presentation.

Conclusion

French Antilles Coconut Flan is a tropical dessert that’s as delicious as it is elegant. Its creamy texture, rich caramel topping, and hint of coconut make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re new to making flan or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.

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