custard. That’s what you’ll experience with Quesillo, a beloved Venezuelan treat that’s both indulgent and comforting. While it might look like a traditional flan, this sweet delicacy has its own twist – a deeper, more intense caramel flavor and a luxuriously creamy consistency that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking to try something new or are simply curious about Venezuelan cuisine, this dessert promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Venezuela. Ready to discover the secret behind this irresistible treat?
Quesillo (Venezuelan Flan) Recipe
Quesillo, a traditional Venezuelan dessert, is a rich, creamy caramel custard that’s loved by many for its smooth texture and deep caramel flavor. It’s often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions in Venezuela. While it’s similar to the classic flan, Quesillo has its own distinct charm, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.
Ingredients:
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Custard:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Make the Caramel:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add sugar and water. Stir gently to help the sugar dissolve.
- Let the mixture cook without stirring until it begins to turn amber in color. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the caramel reaches a golden color, immediately pour it into a round baking dish (preferably a flan or pie dish), swirling the dish to coat the bottom evenly. Be careful as the caramel will be very hot.
2. Prepare the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined and smooth. You can also blend the mixture with a hand blender for an extra smooth texture.
3. Bake the Quesillo:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated baking dish.
- Place the dish in a larger baking pan and add hot water to the larger pan to create a water bath. The water should come about halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
- Bake the Quesillo for about 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool and Serve:
- Let the Quesillo cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) to set properly.
- To serve, carefully run a knife around the edges of the Quesillo to loosen it from the sides of the dish. Invert the baking dish onto a serving platter and gently lift it off. The caramel will pour over the custard as you flip it, creating a beautiful glaze.
Tips for the Perfect Quesillo:
- Caramelizing the Sugar: Be patient when making the caramel. If it burns, start over because it will have a bitter taste.
- Smooth Custard: For an extra silky texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the baking dish.
- Water Bath: Always bake Quesillo in a water bath to prevent it from cracking and to ensure even cooking. The water helps regulate the temperature around the custard as it bakes.
- Chill Overnight: For the best results, let your Quesillo chill in the fridge overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly.
Why You’ll Love Quesillo:
Quesillo is the ultimate comfort dessert—its rich caramel flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy, delicate custard. Whether you’re enjoying it after a family meal or serving it for a special occasion, this Venezuelan flan will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for more. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to treat for any occasion!
To discover more amazing recipes like Quesillo, check out our previous article for more delicious food ideas! : Blueberry Syrup Recipe
