Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas
2 cups of milk (dairy or a non-dairy alternative)
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on your taste)
For the Caramel:
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for a natural caramel flavor)
PREPARATION:
1.Prepare the Caramel (Optional):
If you want a caramelized layer similar to the image, you can create a natural caramel by heating honey or maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat until it darkens slightly. Pour this into the base of your mold or pan, spreading it evenly. Set it aside to cool.
2.Blend the Ingredients:
In a blender, combine the bananas, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3.Cook the Mixture:
Pour the banana mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the eggs to scramble.
4.Pour into the Mold:
Once the mixture has thickened, pour it over the cooled caramel in your mold or directly into the mold if you’re not using caramel.
5.Chill and Set:
Place the mold in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is fully set. The mixture should firm up into a flan-like consistency.
Serve:
To serve, run a knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the flan. Carefully invert the mold onto a plate so that the caramelized side is on top. Slice and enjoy!
Tips:
Natural Sweeteners: Depending on the ripeness of your bananas, you might find the flan naturally sweet enough without adding any additional sweeteners. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a small amount of honey or maple syrup to the mixture before cooking.
Flavor Variations: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for added flavor.
This easy, no-bake flan is a healthy dessert option that’s free from refined sugar and flour, yet still offers a creamy and satisfying treat.
Enjoy!