Apple Flan, Greek Yogurt and Almonds

Instructions for Making Apple Flan with Greek Yogurt and Almonds

1. Prepare the Apples

Start by preparing the apples. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices to the pan, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften. Add honey (or maple syrup) and the cinnamon if you’re using it. Stir to coat the apples evenly and let them cook for another 3-5 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Flan Mixture

While the apples are cooling, prepare the flan mixture. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk to the mixture and whisk until smooth and well combined. You should have a creamy mixture with a smooth consistency.

3. Layer the Apples

Once the apples are cool enough to handle, lightly grease a small baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the caramelized apple slices at the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer. You can also save a few apple slices to garnish the top after baking.

4. Pour the Flan Mixture Over the Apples

Slowly pour the yogurt and egg mixture over the apples, ensuring that the apples are evenly covered. You can gently tap the dish on the counter to help the mixture settle and distribute evenly.

5. Bake the Flan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the flan is fully baked.

6. Prepare the Almond Topping

While the flan is baking, prepare the almond topping. In a small skillet, toast the sliced almonds over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Stir to coat the almonds evenly.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the flan is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. You can then refrigerate it for an hour or two for a chilled, refreshing dessert or serve it warm. Just before serving, top the flan with the honeyed almonds and a few fresh apple slices for garnish.

Why This Recipe Works

• Greek Yogurt for Creaminess and Protein: The inclusion of Greek yogurt adds richness to the flan while boosting its protein content. It also provides a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the apples and honey, giving the dessert a unique flavor.
• Fresh Apples and Warm Spices: The caramelized apples bring a natural sweetness, while the cinnamon (optional) adds a cozy, fall-inspired flavor. This combination pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the flan.
• Almond Crunch: Toasted almonds add the perfect crunch to each bite, providing a nice contrast to the soft, smooth flan. The slight drizzle of honey enhances their sweetness and ties them together with the rest of the dessert.

Tips and Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt. Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
• Flavor Variations: While apples are the star of this recipe, you can also experiment with other fruits, such as pears, peaches, or berries. Just be sure to cook the fruit to soften it before layering it in the dish.
• Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs or a chickpea flour mixture (1 tablespoon chickpea flour mixed with 3 tablespoons water equals 1 egg). Ensure that you’re using dairy-free yogurt and milk alternatives.

Conclusion

This Apple Flan with Greek Yogurt and Almonds is a wonderfully versatile dessert that blends creamy, tangy yogurt with the natural sweetness of apples and a satisfying crunch from the almonds. It’s a healthier take on traditional flan, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, and enjoy this delightful treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!