Lightened-Up Caramel Flan

Ingredients:

For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or substitute with a zero-calorie sweetener for lower points)
  • 1/4 cup water

For the Custard:

  • 1 can (14 oz) fat-free sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) fat-free evaporated milk
  • 1 cup skim milk (or any milk with lower fat content)
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Caramel:
    • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
    • Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and allow it to boil. Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even caramelization. Cook until the caramel turns a deep amber color.
    • Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Be careful as the caramel will be very hot. Set aside to cool and harden.
  2. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Prepare the Custard:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, skim milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • Pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel in the baking dish.
  4. Bake the Flan:
    • Place the baking dish inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish with the flan.
    • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Insert a knife or toothpick near the center to check for doneness—it should come out clean.
    • Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
  5. Chill and Serve:
    • Once cooled, cover the flan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.
    • To serve, run a knife around the edge of the baking dish to loosen the flan. Place a serving plate upside down over the dish, then quickly flip it over to release the flan with the caramel sauce on top.
  6. Enjoy:
    • Slice and serve the caramel flan cold, garnished with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.

Tips to Keep the Points Low:

  • Use fat-free and skim options: Opting for fat-free sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and skim milk helps reduce points.
  • Substitute sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with a zero-calorie sweetener to lower points further.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g

Weight Watchers Points (per serving):

  • WW PointsPlus: 6
  • WW SmartPoints: 8
  • WW Freestyle Points: 8

This lightened-up caramel flan recipe allows you to indulge in a decadent dessert with reduced points, perfect for enjoying without guilt on the Weight Watchers plan. Enjoy!