Classic French Custard Tart (Flan Pâtissier) – A Timeless Dessert

French custard tart, known as flan pâtissier, is one of the most iconic desserts in French pastry. With its creamy, silky texture, rich vanilla flavor, and crispy crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this authentic flan pâtissier recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Today, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this classic French dessert in your own kitchen.

Preparation & Baking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Chilling Time: At least 2 hours (preferably overnight)
• Total Time: 3 hours

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Crust (Shortcrust Pastry):

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 egg

For the Custard Filling:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup cornstarch
• 4 eggs
• 2 vanilla beans (or 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract)

How to Make Classic French Flan Pâtissier

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour mixture with your fingers until it forms a crumbly texture.
3. Add the egg and mix until the dough comes together into a ball.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out & Pre-Bake the Crust

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it fits a 9-inch tart pan.
2. Press the dough into the pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
3. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the custard.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling

1. Slice the vanilla beans in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
2. In a saucepan, heat the milk with the vanilla beans (or vanilla extract) over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and let the vanilla infuse for 10 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
4. Slowly pour the warm vanilla milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
5. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth custard.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake the Flan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the custard into the chilled tart crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
3. Bake for 40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is just slightly wobbly.
4. Let the flan cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 7g

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Whole Milk: A great source of calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones.
• Vanilla: Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
• Eggs: Packed with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients for energy and muscle health.
• Cornstarch: Gives the flan its silky-smooth texture while being easy to digest.

Zoé’s Tips for a Perfect Flan Pâtissier

• For a creamier custard, don’t overcook the filling on the stove. It should thicken slightly but remain pourable.
• Short on time? Use store-bought pie crust, though homemade has a richer flavor.
• For a caramelized top, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the flan once it’s chilled and torch it with a kitchen blowtorch.
• Want extra flavor? Add an extra vanilla bean or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist.

Best Pairings for French Custard Tart

• A cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweet vanilla flavors.
• Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi for a burst of natural tartness.
• Homemade whipped cream for an extra luxurious touch.
• Fruit compote (such as apple or pear) for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• No-Crust Flan: Skip the crust for a lighter version—just bake the custard in a greased dish.
• Chocolate Flan: Mix 3.5 oz (100g) of melted dark chocolate into the custard for a rich chocolate twist.
• Coconut Flan: Swap ½ cup of whole milk for coconut milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
• Pistachio Flan: Stir in 1 tbsp of pistachio paste for a nutty, unique variation.

Flan pâtissier is a timeless French dessert that’s both simple and indulgent. With this authentic French custard tart recipe, you’ll be able to bring a piece of France into your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic vanilla version or try one of the creative variations, this dessert is sure to become a household favorite.

So, are you ready to bake this creamy, velvety, and perfectly golden French flan? Try it today and let me know what you think!

Bon appétit! 🍮💛