This silky, melt-in-your-mouth flan is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Perfect for any gathering or a sweet treat any night of the week.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Set a kettle of water on the stove to boil - you will need it for the water bath.
Add the sugar to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt without stirring - just gently swirl the pan occasionally to help it melt evenly. Cook until the sugar turns a deep amber color, about 5 to 7 minutes.Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round cake pan, quickly tilting and rotating the pan to coat the bottom in an even layer. Set aside and let it harden.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk gently but thoroughly until everything is fully combined - try not to create too many bubbles.
Pour the custard through a fine mesh strainer directly into the caramel-lined pan. Straining is important because it removes any chalazae or lumps for an ultra-silky texture.
Place the flan pan inside a larger deep roasting pan. Carefully pour the boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the flan pan.
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until the flan is set around the edges but still has a gentle wobble in the center when you lightly shake the pan. Carefully remove the flan pan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
To unmold, run a thin spatula gently around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a rimmed serving plate upside down on top of the pan, then flip both together in one confident motion. Lift the pan away and let the caramel sauce pool around the flan.