Venezuelan Quesillo

Here's a Venezuelan flan recipe called Quesillo meaning "small cheese."

We recommend you read the recipe instructions thoroughly before you begin. Be sure to note our recipe tips as well.

To prepare the caramel:

1. Preheat Oven to 350F
2. Place the fry pan on the stove over medium heat
3. Pour 1/2 cup of the sugar into the pan and stir until it browns to liquid caramel
4. Pour the caramel into the pie dish
5. Tilt and swirl the dish to coat the sides and bottom with caramel and set aside

To prepare the mix

1. Combine the remaining sugar, 5 eggs, evaporated milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla into a mixing bowl
2. Blend thoroughly with a whisk or mixer
3. Place a strainer over the pie pan and pour the mix through to catch any unblended particles
4. Place the filled pie pan in the larger baking/roasting pan
5. Carefully pour hot water into the baking pan so it provides a 1-2 inch water bath around the outside of the pie pan

To cook:

1. Place the baking/roasting pan in the oven
2. Cook for at least 1 hour
3. To check for readiness, slide a knife in and out at about 1/3 from the center, if it comes out clean the flan is done (the center will be a little soft but firm as it cools)
4. Remove the pan from the oven

To cool:

1. Place the pan on a counter
2. Cover with aluminum foil and allow to cool for 15 minutes
3. Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow to cool overnight

To serve:

1. Remove the pan from the refrigerator and slide a knife around the inside wall to loosen the flan from the side
2. Place a plate upside down on top of the pan and then flip them both over so the pan is upside-down on top of the plate
3. Remove the plate and enjoy