Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to a world of creamy, zesty perfection! These Orange Flans with Candied Zest are not just a dessert - they're a tantalizing experience that combines the rich, silky texture of traditional flan with a vibrant burst of citrusy goodness. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious homemade dessert, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups fresh orange juice
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup candied orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish or a roasting pan that is large enough to hold your flan molds or ramekins.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Continue boiling the sugar mixture until it turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Once it reaches the desired color, immediately remove it from heat.
- Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of each flan mold or ramekin, tilting them to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to let the caramel harden while you prepare the flan mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh orange juice, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the remaining 1/4 cup of candied orange zest.
- Whisk the mixture gently until well combined, being careful not to create too many bubbles.
- Pour the orange mixture over the set caramel in each mold, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Place the filled molds into the prepared baking dish or roasting pan. Carefully add hot water to the pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the molds, creating a water bath.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the flans are set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the flans from the water bath and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Refrigerate the flans for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of each flan to loosen it, then invert onto a serving plate. The caramel will flow over the top, creating a delicious sauce.
- Garnish with additional candied orange zest if desired and enjoy your Orange Flans with Candied Zest!
Tips
- Caramel Perfection: Watch your sugar carefully when making the caramel. The difference between perfect amber and burnt sugar is just seconds!
- Water Bath Wisdom: The water bath (or bain-marie) is crucial for creating a smooth, creamy texture. Use hot water and be careful not to splash when placing the pan in the oven.
- No Bubble Zone: When whisking the egg mixture, mix gently to avoid creating air bubbles that can make your flan look less smooth.
- Chill Out: Patience is key! Allow the flans to chill completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set properly and develop the best flavor.
- Unmolding Magic: Run a thin knife around the edges and invert quickly onto a plate in one confident motion to ensure a perfect release.
- Zest Fest: The candied orange zest is not just a garnish - it adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that takes this dessert from great to absolutely extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 150mg
