Coconut Vegan Flan Recipe

Calendar icon Published: Apr 26th 2022 by Sarah Leadon
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 21st 2024
Read time: 4 mins
Cuisine:
This recipe, developed through the collective effort of at least 6 experts, underwent meticulous research and testing for over 3 months. Learn more about our process in the art and science behind our recipes or read how we use AI responsibly. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy.
Front shot of Coconut Vegan Flan

Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of this Coconut Vegan Flan, a plant-based twist on the classic dessert. Made with coconut cream, coconut milk, and a touch of orange liqueur, this flan is smooth, silky, and topped with a decadent caramel layer. Perfect for vegans and those looking for a dairy-free option, this dessert is a showstopper for any occasion, blending tradition with modern, health-conscious ingredients.

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Crafted with coconut cream and milk for a luscious, creamy texture without dairy.
  • Elegant and Versatile: A sophisticated dessert suitable for dinner parties or casual indulgence.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples like agar-agar and maple syrup.
  • Vegan-Friendly: A plant-based dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

  • Perfect Caramel: Ensure the sugar melts evenly over low heat to prevent burning.
  • Smooth Mixture: Whisk the coconut mixture continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Chill Time: Allow at least 6 hours of chilling to set the flan fully and enhance its flavor.

  • Serve chilled with a garnish of fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
  • Pair with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for added richness.
  • Accompany with a side of tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.

  • Replace orange liqueur with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
  • Use almond or oat milk instead of coconut milk for a different taste profile.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.
  • Swap maple syrup with agave nectar or a sugar-free sweetener for a low-calorie option.

  • Storage: Keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as freezing may alter the flan’s creamy texture.

  • Coconut Cream and Milk: Create a creamy, dairy-free base for the flan.
  • Agar-Agar: A plant-based gelatin alternative for the perfect set.
  • Arrowroot Powder: Adds thickness and stability to the flan mixture.
  • Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor profile.
  • Vanilla Extract and Orange Liqueur: Infuse warm and citrusy notes.
  • Cinnamon and Turmeric: Add subtle spice and a natural golden hue.

Can I use regular gelatin instead of agar-agar?

No, agar-agar is a vegan alternative to gelatin, which is derived from animal products.

How can I make Vegan Coconut Flan sugar-free?

Replace granulated sugar with a sugar-free caramel alternative and use a sugar-free maple syrup substitute.

What can I use instead of orange liqueur?

You can use orange extract or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

How to Make Coconut Vegan Flan

To make this Coconut Vegan Flan, start by preparing the caramel. Melt granulated sugar in a saucepan over low heat, shaking the pan gently for even melting. Once golden and smooth, pour the caramel into ramekins, swirling to coat the bottoms evenly.

In another saucepan, combine coconut cream, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, orange liqueur, cinnamon, and turmeric. Sift in agar-agar and arrowroot powder, whisking constantly to dissolve. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring continuously for 8-10 minutes, until thickened. Pour the mixture over the caramel in the ramekins and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

To serve, run a knife around the edges of each ramekin and invert onto a dessert plate. Garnish with fresh mint and enjoy this delightful vegan dessert.

Author: Sarah Leadon
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Average: 5 (4 votes)
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Time & Serves

Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
60 mins
Serves
5 persons

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar

  • 1 can Coconut Cream

  • 2 cups Coconut Milk

  • 3 tablespoons Maple Syrup

  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

  • 1 tablespoon Vegan Orange Liqueur

  • 4 tablespoons Arrowroot Powder

  • 1 teaspoon Agar-Agar

  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric

  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon

  • Fresh Mint

Instructions

In a clean, dry medium saucepan, add the granulated sugar.

Place the sugar over medium-low heat for 8-9 minutes. Shake the saucepan if necessary, so the sugar melts evenly.

When the sugar melts and is free of sugar crystals, pour the caramel into five oven-safe ramekins.

Spread the caramel around the ramekins, then set them on a baking sheet and set them aside.

Add coconut cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, orange liqueur, turmeric, and cinnamon to a large saucepan.

Place the cornstarch and agar-agar agar into a small fine-mesh strainer and sift it into the coconut mixture.

Whisk well, then place the coconut mixture onto a medium-high flame.

Whisk the coconut mixture constantly for 8-10 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of the spoon.

Divide the coconut milk mixture between the ramekins and chill it for at least 6 hours.

To serve, invert the flan onto a dessert plate and let the caramel drip onto the flan. Garnish the flan with fresh mint.

Sarah Leadon
Author:
Senior Recipe Developer & Food Writer

More posts by Sarah Leadon

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