Chocolate Flan Recipe
When it comes to desserts that impress yet are surprisingly simple to make, Chocolate Flan stands tall. This decadent dessert combines the rich creaminess of flan with the delightful taste of chocolate. Imagine a smooth, velvety layer of chocolate flan topped with a luscious caramel sauce—it’s a showstopper that will leave your guests swooning. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this Chocolate Flan Recipe is a must-try.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Chocolate Flan Recipe is not just another dessert; it’s a delightful fusion that brings together two beloved treats. The base is a classic flan, creamy and rich, while the addition of chocolate elevates it to a whole new level. It’s perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays but is easy enough for any day of the week. The balance of flavors and textures makes it an unforgettable addition to your dessert repertoire. Plus, with its make-ahead nature, you can prepare it in advance and wow your guests without the last-minute stress.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup white granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 4 eggs (room temperature)
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 14 oz can evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients indicated on the box of chocolate cake mix
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your flan ingredients smoothly.
- Blender or Whisk: To ensure a creamy texture without lumps.
- 8-inch Round Cake Pan: This will hold the flan mixture and bake evenly.
- Large Roasting Pan: For the water bath to ensure gentle cooking.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the flan before serving.
How to Prepare Chocolate Flan Recipe
Step 1: Create the Caramel
Start by making the caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the 1 cup of sugar. Stir frequently until it melts and turns a golden brown color. Quickly pour the caramel into your 8-inch round cake pan, swirling it around to coat the bottom. Be careful, as the caramel will be extremely hot.
Step 2: Blend the Flan Ingredients
In a blender, combine the 4 eggs, 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz evaporated milk, 3/4 cup heavy cream, 4 oz cream cheese, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Pour the Flan Mixture
Carefully pour the blended flan mixture over the caramel in the cake pan. This will create a beautiful layering effect when baked.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layer
In a separate bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Once mixed, pour the chocolate batter over the flan mixture. Be gentle to avoid mixing the two layers.
Step 5: Bake in a Water Bath
Place the cake pan into a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan. This water bath will ensure that the flan cooks evenly and stays moist. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a rack for about 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve Your Chocolate Flan
To serve, run a knife around the edges of the cake pan to loosen the flan. Invert it onto a serving platter. The caramel will flow down the sides, creating a stunning presentation. Slice and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Flan!
International Equivalents
- 1 cup sugar: 200 grams
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk: 397 grams
- 14 oz evaporated milk: 397 grams
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: 180 ml
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: Approximately 450 grams
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Not allowing the flan to cool before refrigerating, which can lead to a watery texture.
- Skipping the water bath, which is essential for even cooking and preventing cracks.
- Overmixing the flan ingredients, which can incorporate too much air and affect the texture.
- Not using room temperature eggs, which can impact the blending process and final flavor.
Storing Tips & Timelines
- Chocolate flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Always cover the flan to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.
Chocolate Flan Recipe Q&A
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even red velvet for a unique twist.
What if my flan cracks while baking?
Cracks can happen if the flan mixture is overmixed or if it bakes too quickly. Ensuring a proper water bath and not overbeating the mixture can help prevent this.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Chocolate Flan is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when the flan is done?
The flan is done when it is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Serve with These
- Fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped cream for a light, airy topping – check out my easy whipped cream recipe.
- Chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance – find tips on creating chocolate shavings.
- Caramel sauce for a more indulgent experience – try my homemade caramel sauce.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps laid out, it’s time to get baking! This Chocolate Flan Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that looks, smells, and tastes incredible. So gather your tools, put on your apron, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. Enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!
Chocolate Flan Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Create the Caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the 1 cup of sugar. Stir frequently until it melts and turns a golden brown color. Quickly pour the caramel into your 8-inch round cake pan, swirling it around to coat the bottom. Be careful, as the caramel will be extremely hot.
- Step 2: Blend the Flan Ingredients. In a blender, combine the 4 eggs, 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz evaporated milk, 3/4 cup heavy cream, 4 oz cream cheese, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the Flan Mixture. Carefully pour the blended flan mixture over the caramel in the cake pan. This will create a beautiful layering effect when baked.
- Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layer. In a separate bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Once mixed, pour the chocolate batter over the flan mixture. Be gentle to avoid mixing the two layers.
- Step 5: Bake in a Water Bath. Place the cake pan into a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan. This water bath will ensure that the flan cooks evenly and stays moist. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes.
- Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a rack for about 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 7: Serve Your Chocolate Flan. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the cake pan to loosen the flan. Invert it onto a serving platter. The caramel will flow down the sides, creating a stunning presentation. Slice and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Flan!
Notes
- Chocolate flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
