Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes basic pantry staples to create a sophisticated dessert.
- Versatile Serving Options: Delicious warm or chilled, suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- No Crust Needed: Eliminates the need for pastry, simplifying the preparation process.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Salt
- Large eggs
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
- Medium apples, thinly sliced
- Directions
-
Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth
- Chill the batter in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
-
Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
- Line a 7.5-inch (19cm) round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the sides for easy removal.
- Stir the chilled batter gently to
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Arrange the apple slices over the batter.
-
Bake:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes to set.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the pie out of the pan.
-
Serve:
- Slice and serve warm, or refrigerate until chilled if preferred.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 8 slices
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Variations
- Add Spices: Incorporate ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for added warmth.
- Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- With Crust: For a traditional approach, pour the batter into a pre-baked tart shell.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Enjoy cold, or warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
FAQs
What is Flan Parisien?
Flan Parisien, or Parisian Flan, is a French custard pie known for its creamy filling and caramelized top
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until serving.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional; unpeeled apples add color and texture.
What type of apples work best?
Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well during baking.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk is recommended for a rich custard, but low-fat milk can be used with a slight change in texture.
Is a water bath necessary?
No, this recipe does not require a water bath.
How do I prevent cracks in the custard?
Ensure the batter is well-mixed and avoid overbaking.
Can I freeze this pie?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the custard’s texture.
What can I serve with this pie?
It pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The custard should be set with a slight jiggle in the center, and a skewer inserted should come out clean.
Conclusion
French Custard Pie with Apples is a delightful dessert that showcases the elegance of simple ingredients. Its creamy custard and tender apples make it a comforting choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this pie is sure to impress with its subtle sweetness and smooth texture.
French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien)
French Custard Pie with Apples, also known as Flan Parisien, is a creamy, crustless dessert that beautifully balances the richness of vanilla custard with the natural sweetness of apples. Simple to prepare and elegant to serve, this classic French treat is perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
Dry Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
-
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
Apples:
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add eggs, milk, cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Chill – Refrigerate the batter for at least 1 hour.
Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 325°F (170°C).
- Prepare the Pan – Line a 7.5-inch (19cm) round cake pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
- Re-mix Batter – Stir chilled batter gently to reincorporate settled flour.
- Add Apples – Pour batter into the prepared pan and arrange apple slices over the top.
Bake:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes – The custard should be set with a slight jiggle in the center. A skewer inserted should come out clean.
- Cool & Serve – Let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the pie out. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
- Variations: Add cinnamon or nutmeg, use pears instead of apples, or bake in a pre-made tart crust.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Enjoy cold or microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.
