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Pumpkin Flan

Pumpkin Flan

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This Pumpkin Flan recipe requires just a few simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Caramel:

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water

For the Pumpkin Flan:

  • 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree
  • 1 (12 oz) can of evaporated milk
  • 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Pinch of salt

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Start by making the caramel topping. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and then allow it to simmer, without stirring, until it turns into a golden brown caramel (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to burn the sugar—keep a close eye on it as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.

Once the caramel has reached the desired color, immediately pour it into the bottom of a 9-inch round baking dish or flan mold. Swirl the dish gently to coat the bottom evenly with the caramel. Set aside to cool and harden.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Flan Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This will be the base for your creamy flan.

Step 3: Bake the Flan Pour the pumpkin custard mixture into the prepared dish over the cooled caramel. To ensure the flan bakes evenly and doesn’t form air bubbles, cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Now, prepare a water bath. Place the baking dish into a larger roasting pan and add hot water around the flan dish, making sure the water reaches halfway up the sides of the flan mold. This will help create an even cooking environment and prevent the custard from cracking.

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The flan should still have a slight wobble, but it shouldn’t jiggle too much.

Step 4: Cool and Chill Once the flan is done baking, remove it from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step allows the flan to set completely and makes it easier to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once the flan has chilled, it’s time to serve. To unmold the flan, gently run a knife around the edges of the dish. Place a large plate or serving platter over the top of the dish, then flip it over. The flan should slide out smoothly, and the caramel will drizzle over the top, creating a beautiful glossy finish.

Slice the pumpkin flan into wedges and enjoy the sweet, creamy texture paired with the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm embrace on a cool fall day.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Flan

  • Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the flan while it’s baking. If it’s overcooked, it can become rubbery instead of creamy. The flan should have a slight jiggle when done.
  • Caramelize carefully: When making the caramel, be cautious to avoid burning the sugar. If the sugar becomes too dark, it can develop a bitter taste.
  • Flavor variations: While pumpkin flan is delicious on its own, you can play around with different spices or even add a hint of maple syrup to enhance the fall flavors.
  • Make it ahead: Flan actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Make it ahead of time and serve it chilled for a no-fuss dessert.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Flan

Pumpkin Flan is the perfect dessert for pumpkin lovers who want something a bit different from traditional pumpkin pie. It combines the creamy, smooth texture of flan with the rich flavors of pumpkin and fall spices, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and comforting. The caramelized top adds the perfect touch of sweetness, making each bite a little bit of heaven.

Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving dinner, a fall gathering, or as a special treat for yourself, this Pumpkin Flan is sure to impress. It’s a stunning, yet easy-to-make dessert that’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite in your household. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to treat your taste buds to a slice of fall in every bite!