Spanish Flan de Naranja is a delicate and elegant citrus-infused custard dessert that brings a refreshing twist to the classic Spanish flan. Traditional flan is loved for its silky texture and rich caramel flavor, and the addition of fresh orange zest and juice elevates it with bright, aromatic notes that balance the sweetness beautifully.

This dessert is deeply rooted in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, where citrus fruits are often used to enhance desserts with natural fragrance and flavor. Light yet indulgent, Flan de Naranja is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or as a refined ending to a hearty meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with sophistication. The ingredients are humble and easy to find, yet the final result feels luxurious and restaurant-worthy. The orange flavor adds freshness without overpowering the creamy custard, and the caramel sauce ties everything together with gentle bitterness and depth. It’s a dessert that always impresses while remaining comforting and familiar.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it offers a unique variation on a beloved classic. If you enjoy traditional flan, the orange-infused version adds a new layer of flavor that feels both refreshing and indulgent. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to prepare ahead of time, and perfect for entertaining, making it a versatile and rewarding dessert.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: About 5 hours
Servings: 6
Calories (Approx.): 280 per serving
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Spanish

Ingredients

For the Caramel

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons water

For the Orange Flan Custard

• 4 large eggs
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (395 g)
• 1½ cups whole milk
• Zest of 1 large orange
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Caramel

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
2. Cook without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep golden amber.
3. Immediately pour the caramel into a flan mold or round baking dish, swirling to coat the base evenly.

Prepare the Custard

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs gently until combined.
2. Add condensed milk, whole milk, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk until smooth, avoiding too much air incorporation.

Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the mold.
2. Place the mold in a larger baking dish and add hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
3. Bake until the center is just set.

Cool and Chill

1. Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before unmolding.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Caramel
Cook sugar and water until amber, then pour into the mold.

Step 2: Mix the Custard
Whisk eggs, milk, condensed milk, orange zest, juice, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Flan
Pour custard over caramel gently.

Step 4: Bake in Water Bath
Bake the flan evenly using a bain-marie to ensure a silky texture.

Step 5: Chill and Unmold
Cool completely, then refrigerate before turning out onto a serving plate.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Spanish Flan de Naranja chilled, unmolded onto a plate so the caramel sauce flows over the top. Garnish with fresh orange segments, a light dusting of orange zest, or mint leaves for an elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with coffee or espresso.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Do not overbake; the center should jiggle slightly when done.
• Avoid whisking too vigorously to prevent air bubbles.
• Let the flan chill thoroughly for clean slicing.
• Run a knife around the edges before unmolding for easy release.

Variations

Blood Orange Flan
Use blood orange juice and zest for a deeper color and richer citrus flavor.

Dairy-Free Version
Substitute coconut milk and coconut condensed milk for a tropical twist.

Orange Cinnamon Flan
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a strip of orange peel infused in the milk.

Chocolate Orange Flan
Add melted dark chocolate to the custard for a bold flavor combination.

Mini Individual Flans
Bake the custard in ramekins for individual portions.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as freezing alters the custard’s texture.
Make-Ahead: Ideal for preparing a day in advance.

Special Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Flan mold or round baking dish
• Large roasting pan for water bath
• Oven

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is strongly recommended for the best aroma and flavor.

Why is my flan watery?
Overbaking or skipping the water bath can cause separation.

Can I make this flan without condensed milk?
Condensed milk provides sweetness and creaminess; substitutions may alter texture.

How do I know when the flan is done?
The edges should be set while the center still jiggles slightly.

Can I flavor it with other citrus fruits?
Yes, lemon, mandarin, or tangerine work beautifully.

Conclusion

Spanish Flan de Naranja is a refined yet comforting dessert that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients enhanced with fresh citrus. Its smooth, creamy texture and bright orange flavor make it a standout variation of traditional flan. Perfect for entertaining or quiet indulgence, this dessert is a timeless classic with a refreshing Spanish twist that deserves a place in every home baker’s repertoire.