Elegant Banana Caramel Pudding (Banana Flan)

Ingredients

For the Caramel:

• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) water

For the Pudding:

• 3 medium ripe bananas
• 800ml (3 1/3 cups) whole milk
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 25g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 20g (2 tablespoons) quick-dissolving gelatin
• 60ml (1/4 cup) warm water (for gelatin)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel:

• Heat sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat
• Cook without stirring until the mixture turns golden amber
• Immediately pour into a silicone mold, coating the bottom and sides
• Let the caramel cool and harden

1. Prepare the Gelatin:

• Sprinkle gelatin over warm water in a small bowl
• Let stand for 5 minutes until softened
• Stir until completely dissolved

1. Make the Pudding Base:

• Mash bananas until smooth
• Heat milk, sugar, and butter in a saucepan until just below boiling
• Remove from heat and add vanilla extract
• Stir in dissolved gelatin until well combined
• Add mashed bananas and mix thoroughly

1. Assemble:

• Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the caramel-lined mold
• Tap gently to remove air bubbles
• Let cool to room temperature

1. Set:

• Refrigerate for 4-5 hours or overnight until completely set
• To unmold, dip the mold briefly in warm water
• Invert onto a serving plate

Nutritional Information

Per serving (8 servings):

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 48g

Pro Tips and Tricks

1. Banana Selection: Use fully ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor
2. Caramel Making: Watch carefully as it can burn quickly; look for an amber color
3. Temperature Control: Ensure milk mixture is hot but not boiling when adding gelatin
4. Straining: Don’t skip this step as it ensures a silky-smooth texture
5. Unmolding: Use hot water briefly to release the pudding easily

Variations and Substitutions

1. Milk Options:

• Coconut milk for tropical flavor
• Half-and-half for richer texture
• Plant-based milk (adjust gelatin accordingly)

1. Flavor Enhancements:

• Add rum extract for adult version
• Include cinnamon or nutmeg
• Incorporate coffee powder