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French Chocolate Flan

Decadent French Chocolate Flan for Show-Stopping Dessert

Experience the luxurious French Chocolate Flan, a show-stopping dessert with rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Custard
  • 3 large egg yolks Adds richness and structure; vegan substitute: silken tofu.
  • 2 large whole eggs Provides additional structure; substitute with flax eggs for vegan.
  • 1 cup white sugar Sweetens custard; brown sugar adds caramel flavor.
  • cup cornstarch Thickens custard; can use arrowroot powder.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances flavor; no substitute necessary.
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk Base for custard; almond milk can be non-dairy alternative.
  • 1 ¾ cups heavy cream Adds richness; coconut cream works as vegan substitute.
  • 7 oz dark chocolate Chopped; contributes richness.
  • 1 tablespoon jam For brushing; apricot or raspberry preserves can add flavor.
For the Chocolate Tart Base
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for gluten-free version.
  • cup icing sugar Sweetens and gives tender texture; regular sugar may alter texture.
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder Enhances chocolate flavor; carob powder can be alternative.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness; essential for flavor.
  • 1 stick butter Melted; binds crust and adds richness; vegan butter for dairy-free version.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor; use quality pure extract.

Equipment

  • tart pan
  • mixing bowl
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, icing sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven has reached this temperature before proceeding.
  3. Line the chilled tart crust with parchment paper and fill it with baking weights. Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat until thickened, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in dark chocolate until melted.
  5. Carefully pour the chocolate custard into the cooled tart crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until just set. The center should jiggle slightly while the edges are firm.
  6. Once baked, cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Brush with jam before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Whisk consistently to prevent burning; allow the flan to chill completely for clean edges. Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.

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