Velvety Caramel Flan Muffins

These Velvety Caramel Flan Muffins are a delicious twist on the classic Latin dessert. With their creamy flan-like interior, golden muffin tops, and a rich caramel glaze, they’re an elegant yet easy treat that blends the best of two dessert worlds. Each bite is silky, sweet, and irresistibly smooth — perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the richness of flan with the convenience of muffins
• Creamy, custard-like interior with a soft muffin texture
• Topped with luscious homemade caramel
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
• No water bath required — simpler than traditional flan
• Made with pantry-friendly ingredients
• Great for entertaining or gifting
• Can be made ahead and stored easily
• Naturally gluten-free if using almond flour
• Elegant presentation without complicated steps

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar (for caramel)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour or almond flour (optional, for structure)
• Salt
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, toasted coconut, or fruit

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a muffin pan.
2. Make the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns a deep amber color. Immediately pour a small amount into the bottom of each muffin cup. Set aside to cool and harden slightly.
3. Prepare the flan batter: In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If desired, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour for a firmer texture.
4. Pour batter into muffin cups, filling nearly to the top.
5. Place muffin pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the centers are just set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
6. Cool muffins in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and carefully invert to release the muffins.
7. Chill if desired before serving, or enjoy slightly warm with toppings.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 10–12 muffins
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Flan Muffins: Add shredded coconut to the batter
• Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate into the cups before baking
• Coffee Infused: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso to the flan mix
• Orange Zest: Add a touch of citrus zest for a bright, refreshing flavor
• Mini versions: Use a mini muffin pan for bite-sized flan treats

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator
• Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature. For a warm version, microwave for 10–15 seconds

FAQs

Do I have to use both sweetened condensed and evaporated milk?

Yes, the combination creates the perfect flan texture and sweetness balance.

Can I skip the caramel?

You can, but the caramel adds the classic flan flavor and sticky-sweet topping.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

Work quickly when pouring it into the muffin cups. It will soften slightly again when baked.

Can I make this recipe without flour?

Yes, the flour is optional. Without it, the muffins will be softer and more custard-like.

How do I know when they’re done?

The centers should be set but still jiggle slightly. A toothpick should come out mostly clean.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes! They’re great chilled and can be made 1–2 days in advance.

Can I use silicone muffin molds?

Absolutely — they make unmolding easier and reduce the risk of sticking.

Will they stick to the pan?

If well-greased, they should come out clean. Run a knife around the edges before inverting.

What’s the best way to invert them?

Let them cool slightly, then place a tray over the muffin pan and flip carefully but quickly.

Can I add fruit?

Yes! Add chopped fruit (like pineapple or berries) to the flan mix for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Velvety Caramel Flan Muffins are a delightful fusion of texture and flavor — the creamy indulgence of flan with the convenience and charm of a handheld muffin. With a rich caramel top and silky custard center, they’re the perfect dessert to impress guests or treat yourself. Simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious — this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Print