My First Try at Vegan Caramel Custard
I remember the first time I decided to make a vegan caramel custard. I wanted something rich and creamy like the classic flan I used to make but without any animal products. The idea of using plant-based ingredients intrigued me, and I was excited to try something new. I thought it would be a challenge, but the process was smoother than I expected. The real test, though, would be the caramel. Getting that perfect amber color without burning the sugar was a bit nerve-wracking!
Creating the Perfect Caramel Layer
As I stood by the stove, watching the sugar and water bubble away, I kept swirling the pan and hoping for the best. It felt like magic watching the sugar slowly turn golden brown. When I poured the caramel into the pan, it set beautifully, creating a shiny layer at the bottom. That moment made me realize how satisfying it is to turn just two simple ingredients into something so rich and flavorful.
The Creamy Vegan Custard
The custard was another adventure. I blended coconut milk, vegan cream cheese, and a touch of agar-agar to give it that perfect set. As I whisked everything over the stove, the custard thickened, and the kitchen filled with the warm scent of vanilla. It reminded me of traditional flan but felt lighter and somehow more refreshing. I couldn’t help but sneak a spoonful before pouring it over the caramel!
The Big Reveal
After letting the custard chill overnight, I was both nervous and excited to flip the pan. Would it hold its shape? As I carefully inverted the dish onto a plate, the custard slid out perfectly, with the caramel cascading down the sides like liquid gold. It was a beautiful sight! When I took that first bite, I knew I had created something special. It was creamy, sweet, and full of flavor, but best of all, it was 100% vegan.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Vegan Caramel Custard
- Before starting, ensure all ingredients are measured and prepped, especially the vegan butter and cream cheese, which should be cubed and chilled. This keeps the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
- High-quality vegan cream cheese and butter contribute significantly to the custard’s creamy texture. Nature’s Charm is recommended for the coconut-based ingredients, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
- When caramelizing the sugar, keep a close eye on it. The color can change from amber to burnt very quickly. Swirl the pan instead of stirring to prevent crystallization.
- Constant whisking while the custard thickens is essential to avoid clumps. Alternating between a whisk and a rubber spatula ensures an even, lump-free consistency.
- Straining the custard mixture ensures it’s silky smooth. If any clumps form during the cooking process, this step will take care of them.
- Letting the flan chill for 12-24 hours in the fridge is critical for its texture and firmness. Avoid rushing this process to achieve the perfect consistency.
- You can swap the non-dairy milk options based on preference—almond milk will provide a nuttier taste, while oat milk delivers a creamier, more neutral flavor.
- If the caramel hardens too quickly before spreading, place the pan over low heat briefly to soften it up.
- For a polished look, garnish with fresh mint leaves or berries for a pop of color and to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
Vegan Caramel Custard
Dive into the luscious world of vegan desserts with this creamy caramel custard! This delightful treat boasts a velvety vanilla base topped with a rich, amber caramel layer. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a sweet moment, this dessert is both elegant and easy to make. Get ready to wow your taste buds!
10
slices40
minutes20
minutes391
kcal12
hours13
hoursKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Caramel Layer
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons water
- Custard Base
1 1/2 cups evaporated coconut milk (Nature’s Charm recommended)
3/4 cup + 1 teaspoon sweetened condensed coconut milk (Nature’s Charm recommended)
3/4 cup + 4 teaspoons non-dairy milk (oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk)
7 ounces vegan cream cheese
5 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons agar-agar powder (not agar flakes)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
7 1/2 tablespoons cold cubed vegan butter
Directions
- Prepare Caramel – Combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Increase heat to medium-high and let it boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Swirl the pan gently to ensure even caramelization. Quickly pour the caramel into an 8-inch flanera or cake pan and let it harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Blend Custard – In a high-speed blender, mix evaporated coconut milk, sweetened condensed coconut milk, non-dairy milk, vegan cream cheese, cornstarch, agar-agar powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.
- Cook Custard – Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer while whisking continuously for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Alternate between using a whisk and a rubber spatula to prevent burning.
- Assemble Flan – Pour the cooled custard over the set caramel in the flanera or cake pan. Smooth the top with a spoon or offset spatula. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
- Serve – Before serving, run a sharp knife around the inner edge of the pan to loosen the custard. Place a serving plate on top and invert quickly. Lift the pan slowly to release the custard and let the caramel sauce flow down the sides.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- saucepan
- high-speed blender
- whisk
- rubber spatula
- fine mesh sieve
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 391kcal
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 32mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 23g
- Vitamin A: 308IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 41mg
- Iron: 0.4mg
FAQ-Vegan Caramel Custard
Can I make this custard without agar-agar?
Agar-agar is essential in this recipe to replace the gelatin usually used in traditional custards. It’s a vegan gelling agent that gives the flan its firm texture. Ensure to use the powder form for accurate results.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?
Once the caramel reaches a deep amber color, quickly pour it into the pan and swirl it around evenly. If it hardens too quickly, gently reheat the pan on low heat until it softens.
What’s the best substitute for vegan cream cheese?
If you can’t find vegan cream cheese, you can substitute it with silken tofu for a softer, lighter texture, though it will slightly change the custard’s richness.
How can I make the custard firmer?
To make the custard firmer, increase the amount of agar-agar powder by ½ teaspoon. This will provide more structure but be careful not to overdo it as too much can make the texture overly stiff.
Can I freeze the vegan caramel custard?
Freezing isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture of the custard. The best way to store it is in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 4-5 days.
