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Leche flan
Melt the sugar and water in a small pan over medium heat, swirling but not stirring, until it turns deep amber. Pour it straight into two llaneras or one 18 to 20 cm round tin, dividing it evenly, and tilt to cover the base. This makes about 900 ml of custard, more than one llanera holds. It sets hard in a minute.
Watch: Caramel is far hotter than boiling water and sticks to skin. Keep fingers and children well away.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Leche flan take?
9 hr 5 min all in — 15 min prep, 50 min cook, 8 hr rest. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 8 slices. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Eggs, Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Saucepan, Mixing bowl, Wok.
How much salt do I put in?
This recipe does not list a salt amount. We will not invent one.
How much sugar?
100 g of Sugar.
What can I use instead?
Egg yolks only → 6 whole eggs. Lighter and less rich, closer to a Spanish flan. Steam it 5 minutes less.
What should I watch for?
Caramel is far hotter than boiling water and sticks to skin. Keep fingers and children well away.
Any tips from this recipe?
Keep the whites. They freeze well, and Filipino cooks turn them into meringue for sans rival or brazo de Mercedes. Two small llaneras set faster and more evenly than one big tin. Use only the green zest of the lime. The white pith underneath is bitter.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Let it cool, then chill overnight. Run a thin knife round the edge, put a plate on top and turn it over in one firm move, letting the caramel drain onto the flan.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.