Fresh Fruit Flan Recipe: A Delightful Summer Dessert

Introduction

There's something magical about a well-made fresh fruit flan. The combination of a buttery, tender crust, silky custard, and a vibrant array of fresh fruits creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. This fresh fruit flan is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence.

For me, fresh fruit flan is a nostalgic recipe. It takes me back to warm summer days spent in my grandmother's kitchen, where she would always have a freshly made flan ready for dessert. The colors and flavors of the fruit, combined with the creamy custard, make this dessert a favorite in our family. Now, I'm excited to share this recipe with you, so you can bring a bit of that same joy to your table.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Fresh Fruit Flan

Brief Description

This fresh fruit flan features a buttery crust, a creamy custard filling, and an assortment of fresh fruits for a refreshing and visually appealing dessert. Perfect for summer or any special occasion.

Ingredients List

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

• Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango, peaches)
• 1/4 cup apricot jam (optional, for glazing)

Substitutions

You can use a store-bought crust if you're short on time, and the custard can be substituted with a vanilla pudding mix for an even quicker version. For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative in the crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a food processor, pulse together the flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and pulse again. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Pre-bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch flan or tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and place parchment paper with pie weights or dried beans on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
3. Make the custard: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled crust.
4. Assemble the flan: Once the custard is set, arrange the fresh fruits on top in an appealing pattern. You can get creative with the fruit placement to make a beautiful design. If desired, gently heat the apricot jam and brush it over the fruits to create a glossy finish.
5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the flan for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Slice and enjoy!

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)

Serving Suggestions

This fresh fruit flan is perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Serve it chilled, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For an added touch of elegance, garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of fresh fruit flan (based on 10 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 4g

Storage and Reheating

This fresh fruit flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Since the flan is best served cold, no reheating is necessary—simply slice and serve straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different fruits on the flan?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the fresh fruit topping with your favorite seasonal fruits. Berries, kiwi, mango, and citrus fruits all work beautifully. You can also add tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya for a unique twist.

What if I don’t have a flan pan?

If you don’t have a flan pan, you can use a tart pan or even a springform pan. Just make sure the sides are high enough to hold the custard and fruit.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, fresh fruit flan can be made the day before your event. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and wait to add the fruit topping until just before serving to keep the fruit fresh.

Conclusion

This fresh fruit flan is a show-stopping dessert that’s both refreshing and elegant. The combination of buttery crust, creamy custard, and vibrant fruit is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this fresh fruit flan is the perfect choice. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear how your flan turned out!