Venezuelan Quesillo: Creamy Caramel Flan with a Touch of Vanilla

Quesillo is a traditional Venezuelan dessert, akin to flan, made with a rich and creamy caramel base. With the delightful aroma of vanilla infused throughout, this dessert is perfect for sweet endings to any meal. The smooth texture and balance of flavors make it a favorite in Venezuelan households.

Ingredients###
For the Caramel:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water

For the Flan:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon rum (optional)

Instructions###

Prepare the Caramel:###

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and turns into a golden-brown caramel.
3. Quickly pour the hot caramel into a flan mold or a round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.

Prepare the Flan Mixture:###

1. In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and rum (if using).
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.

Assemble and Bake:###

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the flan mixture into the caramel-coated mold.
3. Place the mold in a larger baking pan and fill the pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan mold. This creates a water bath to ensure even cooking.
4. Carefully transfer the baking pan to the preheated oven.

Bake and Cool:###

1. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the flan mold from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

Serve:###

1. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it from the mold.
2. Place a large serving plate over the top of the mold and carefully invert to release the flan.
3. Slice and enjoy the creamy, caramel-topped Venezuelan quesillo with a touch of vanilla.

This elegant and luscious dessert is sure to impress your family and guests with its beautiful presentation and rich flavor.