Neapolitan Flan is a visually stunning and delectable dessert that marries the classic flavors of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate in a uniquely layered form. To craft this dessert, the process begins with preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and creating a luscious golden caramel. This caramel is then carefully poured into a 9-inch round baking dish, providing a sweet and glossy base for the flan.
The custard base is made from a blend of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture is then divided into three portions, each flavored separately: one with pureed strawberries, another with sifted cocoa powder, and the last left plain. The artistic layering begins by carefully pouring the strawberry mixture over the cooled caramel, followed by the chocolate layer, and finally topping with the plain mixture.
To ensure even cooking and a smooth texture, the flan is baked in a water bath, which helps regulate temperature and prevent cracking. After baking for 60-70 minutes, the flan is cooled to room temperature and then chilled in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Serving this dessert involves a bit of dramatic flair: running a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it before inverting it onto a serving plate. The caramel cascades down the sides, creating a beautifully glossy finish. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves adds a touch of elegance and a hint of freshness to this richly flavored dessert.
Neapolitan Flan, with its tri-layered sophistication, not only appeals to the eyes but also offers a delectable journey through the harmonious blend of three classic flavors, making it a perfect dessert for any special occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup of sugar
1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) of evaporated milk
4 large eggs
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1/2 cup of whole milk
1 cup of strawberries, hulled and pureed
1/2 cup of cocoa powder, sifted
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns into a golden caramel. Carefully pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Divide the milk mixture evenly into three separate bowls.
5. In the first bowl, add the pureed strawberries and mix well.
6. In the second bowl, add the sifted cocoa powder and mix well.
7. Leave the third bowl plain.
8. Carefully layer the three mixtures into the baking dish over the cooled caramel. Start with the strawberry mixture, followed by the chocolate mixture, and finally the plain mixture.
9. Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until halfway up the sides of the baking dish to create a water bath.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the flan comes out clean.
11. Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
12. To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it. Invert onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel to drizzle over the top.
13. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Enjoy your Neapolitan Flan!