Velvety Caramel Flan Muffins

Velvety caramel flan muffins combine the rich, creamy texture of classic flan with the fluffy, moist consistency of a muffin. These decadent treats feature a smooth caramel layer, a custard-like center, and a soft, cake-like base—making them the perfect dessert for flan lovers and muffin enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A Unique Twist on Flan – Combines the best of flan and muffins in one treat.
  • Rich & Creamy – A smooth caramel layer melts into a custardy, velvety muffin.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, dessert, or special gatherings.
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with a stunning, elegant result.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Caramel Layer:

  • Granulated sugar
  • Water

For the Flan Muffin Batter:

  • Eggs
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Butter, melted

Directions

Make the Caramel Layer:

  1. Prepare the Muffin Pan – Grease a muffin tin well to prevent sticking.
  2. Melt Sugar – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Cook until golden brown, swirling occasionally.
  3. Coat the Muffin Cups – Quickly pour caramel into each muffin cup before it hardens.

Make the Flan Muffin Batter:

  1. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Combine & Mix – Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
  4. Fill Muffin Cups – Pour the batter over the caramel layer, filling each cup about ¾ full.

Bake & Cool:

  1. Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool & Invert – Let the muffins cool for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and carefully invert onto a plate to release the caramel topping.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Serve warm or chilled with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12 muffins
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Coconut Flan Muffins – Add shredded coconut for extra texture.
  • Chocolate Flan Muffins – Stir in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
  • Coffee-Caramel Muffins – Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for a rich depth of flavor.
  • Spiced Flan Muffins – Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze – Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
  • Reheat – Microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, gooey caramel topping.

FAQs

Can I make these without a muffin tin?

Yes, you can use ramekins or a mini cake pan instead.

Do I have to invert the muffins?

Yes! Inverting them helps release the caramel topping onto the muffins.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, but evaporated milk gives a creamier texture.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?

Work fast when pouring the caramel into the muffin tin, and tilt to spread it evenly.

What if my caramel sticks to the pan?

Let the pan sit in warm water for a minute to loosen the caramel before inverting.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes! Sprinkle crushed nuts or toffee bits before baking.

How do I make the muffins extra soft?

Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined.

Can I use store-bought caramel instead?

Yes, but homemade caramel gives the best flavor.

What can I serve with these muffins?

Pair with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for a luxurious dessert.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes! They taste even better the next day after chilling in the fridge.

Conclusion

Velvety caramel flan muffins are an irresistible fusion of creamy flan and soft muffins, topped with a glossy caramel layer that melts in your mouth. Whether served warm or chilled, these muffins are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Try them today and impress your family and friends with this unique, decadent treat!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Velvety Caramel Flan Muffins

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 muffins 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Latin American-Inspired

Description

These Caramel Flan Muffins combine the rich, creamy texture of flan with the soft, airy bite of a muffin. With a luscious caramel layer and a smooth custard center, they’re the perfect individual-sized dessert!


Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Caramel Layer:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
For the Flan Batter:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Muffin Batter:

 

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Make the Caramel Layer:

  1. Prepare Muffin Pan:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or use silicone muffin liners.
  2. Make the Caramel:

    • In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat until sugar dissolves and turns golden brown.
    • Quickly divide the caramel among the muffin cups, swirling to coat the bottom.

Prepare the Flan Batter:

  1. Blend the Flan Ingredients:
    • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and vanilla until smooth.
    • Pour about 1 tablespoon of flan mixture into each caramel-coated muffin cup.

Make the Muffin Batter:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

    • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Cream Butter & Sugar:

    • In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
    • Add egg and vanilla, mixing well.
  3. Combine & Assemble:

    • Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
    • Spoon about 1 tablespoon of muffin batter over the flan layer in each cup.

Bake & Cool:

  1. Bake in a Water Bath:

    • Place the muffin tin inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides (to create a water bath).
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the muffin tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool & Invert:

    • Let muffins cool for 10 minutes before running a knife around the edges.
    • Carefully invert onto a plate so the caramel drizzles over the flan.

Serve & Enjoy!

 

  1. Chill or Serve Warm:
    • Enjoy warm, or refrigerate for a few hours for a classic flan texture.
    • Garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries.

Notes

  • No buttermilk? Use ¼ cup milk + ½ teaspoon vinegar as a substitute.
  • For extra caramel, drizzle with store-bought caramel sauce before serving.
  • Make ahead: These store well in the fridge for 3 days!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star