If you have a soft spot for custardy desserts that strike the perfect balance between silky smoothness and a touch of fruity freshness, then this French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine luscious custard filling that’s rich yet light, nestled under delicate slices of tender apples, all baked into a tender crust-free pie for an effortlessly elegant finish. This classic French treat brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite, making it a fantastic dessert for cozy nights or special gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just testing your skills, it’s a simple yet impressive recipe that never fails to wow.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the creamy custard to the subtly sweet apples that crown it. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dessert to life:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Provides just enough structure to give the custard a delicate, tender body without heaviness.
- ⅔ cup white granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie beautifully without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 5 large eggs: The backbone of the custard, eggs give it richness and help it set perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the custard texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts the custard’s lush mouthfeel and gives it a velvety finish.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and aromatic depth to every bite.
- 2 medium apples (thinly sliced): Their natural sweetness and tender texture atop the custard add freshness and a slight tartness.
How to Make French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 325°F (170°C). This moderate temperature allows the custard to bake slowly, ensuring a creamy texture without curdling or cracking. While the oven warms, you can gather your ingredients and prep the apples for a smooth workflow.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution throughout your custard, which helps with smoothness and taste consistency.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until the mixture is completely smooth, with no lumps. This silky batter is the essence of the flan’s creamy custard layer, so be thorough for the best texture.
Step 4: Chill the Batter
Place the batter in the refrigerator and chill it for at least an hour. This step may seem simple but chilling allows the flour to hydrate fully and the flavors to meld, helping the custard set perfectly during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Apple Topping
Line a 7.5-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, which makes for easy removal later without sticking. Pour your chilled batter into the pan evenly. Then, gently arrange the thinly sliced apples on top. These apples will bake into the custard, providing fruity bursts and beautiful caramelization.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The filling should be set but still have a subtle wobble for that signature creamy flan texture.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Let the pie cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Then carefully lift it out using the parchment paper. You can slice and serve it warm or refrigerate it if you prefer it chilled—the flavor gets even better once rested.
How to Serve French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch and a slight crunch. For an extra indulgent presentation, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce complements the apple and vanilla notes wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing cup of coffee or tea. For brunch settings, fresh berries or a citrus salad can balance the richness of the custard.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices topped with thin apple chips and a sprig of fresh mint for a rustic yet refined vibe. You could also present mini versions in ramekins for charming single servings that wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The custard stays creamy, and the apple topping will maintain its tender sweetness.
Freezing
While you can freeze this custard pie, it’s best to do so without the apple topping, which can become watery. Wrap the base tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy it warm again, gently reheat individual slices in a low-temperature oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave briefly. Avoid overheating to keep the custard silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for the pie?
Absolutely! Apples like Granny Smith provide tartness, while Fuji or Gala add more sweetness. Just choose apples that hold their shape after baking for the best texture.
Is there a crust in this French custard pie?
No crust is needed for the traditional Flan Parisien. The custard sets in the pan and forms its own tender base, making this an easier and lighter dessert option.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on eggs and dairy to achieve its classic texture. However, you could experiment with plant-based milks and egg substitutes, though the texture and flavor will differ significantly.
Why do I need to chill the batter before baking?
Chilling allows the flour to absorb the liquid fully and gives the maltreated batter time to meld flavors, resulting in a smoother custard that sets beautifully during baking.
How do I know when the custard pie is perfectly baked?
The custard is done when a skewer or toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The pie should be set but still have a slight wobble for that luscious texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe that feels both timeless and effortlessly special. Whether you’re serving it for dessert after a cozy meal or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a little piece of French pastry elegance right in your own kitchen. You’ll soon understand why it’s a treasured classic for so many!
Print
French Custard Pie with Apples (Flan Parisien) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
A classic French Custard Pie with Apples, also known as Flan Parisien, featuring a smooth, creamy custard base with thinly sliced apples on top. This elegant dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and delicate vanilla flavor, baked to a golden finish—ideal for serving warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Custard Batter
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup white granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (170°C) to prepare for baking the custard pie evenly at a moderate temperature.
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar to combine dry ingredients. Then add the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Chill the batter: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the custard batter for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Prepare the pan and add apples: Line a 7.5-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the chilled custard batter into the pan evenly, then carefully arrange the thinly sliced apples on top of the batter.
- Bake the pie: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The custard should set and the apples should be tender. Test doneness by inserting a skewer in the center—it should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper. Slice and serve warm, or refrigerate to serve chilled as preferred.
Notes
- Use firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the custard batter is well chilled before baking to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Do not overbake; custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven.
- Allow the pie to cool properly for easier slicing and cleaner portions.
- Can be served warm or cold according to preference.
