Portuguese Grandma's Flan (Pudim da Avó) Recipe

Name: Portuguese Grandma's Flan (Pudim da Avó) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 Servings
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (600g) of cream; 2 lemons, peel only; 3 tablespoons (38g) of sugar; 1 1/2 cups (360g) of condensed milk; 8 eggs; 1 tablespoon (8g) of cornstarch; Zest of 1 lemon; Liquid caramel (to taste)

Enjoy this Portuguese grandma's flan (pudim da avó) recipe, a creamy and zesty treat with rich caramel that brings back sweet memories of joyful family get-togethers and gatherings.

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1 h 5 min 6 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 50 min

Dessert Recipes

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

Get ready to savor grandma's flan! This creamy pudding mixes just a few simple ingredients, like cream, condensed milk, and a hint of lemon, to create a dessert that's both rich and delightful. Whether it's a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this flan brings a taste of home that everyone will love. Follow this easy recipe and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Tips for Success

• When making the caramel, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and keep the heat on medium-low to prevent burning. Swirl the pan gently instead of stirring to achieve a smooth caramel without crystallization.

• Ensure that the eggs are at room temperature before mixing them into the batter. This will help create a smoother texture in your flan and prevent it from having an eggy taste.

• Avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to a flan that puffs up and then collapses, resulting in a denser texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a mixture of milk and half-and-half. However, this will change the texture and creaminess of the flan.

How should I store leftover flan, and how long does it last?

Store the leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing odors.

What can I do if my flan doesn't set properly after baking?

If your flan is still liquid after the baking time, it may need more time in the oven. Check it by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done. If not, return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking regularly.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Moscato d'Asti: Its sweetness and light bubbles complement the creamy texture of the flan.
Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay enhances the richness of the dessert without overpowering it.
Cold Brew Coffee: The smooth, rich flavor of cold brew balances the sweetness of the flan.
Lemonade: The citrus notes in lemonade provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dessert.
Green Tea: A light, floral green tea offers a subtle palate cleanser after each bite.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups (600g) of cream2 lemons, peel only3 tablespoons (38g) of sugar1 1/2 cups (360g) of condensed milk8 eggs1 tablespoon (8g) of cornstarchZest of 1 lemonLiquid caramel (to taste)

Equipment:

SaucepanMeasuring cupsBowlWire whiskPudding moldOvenWater bath

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

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Pour the cream in a saucepan with the lemon peel and sugar and bring to a boil.
Remove from the heat and let it cool.
Preheat the oven to 170ºC or 340ºF.
In a bowl pour the condensed milk, the eggs, the cornstarch flour and the lemon zest and mix everything with a wire whisk.
Discard the lemon peels in the warm cream and pour the cream over the the condensed milk preparion, stirring constantly.
Pour this preparation into the previously caramelized pudding form and bake in a water bath for about 50 minutes.
Remove from the oven and unmold only once cold.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Receitas de Portugal