Flan is a baked custard dessert that features a smooth, creamy texture topped with a layer of clear caramel sauce. It is made primarily from eggs, milk (which can be whole milk, cream, or condensed milk), sugar, and often flavored with vanilla or other ingredients like coconut, coffee, or citrus zest

. The preparation involves caramelizing sugar and pouring it into a mold, then adding the custard mixture and baking it in a water bath until set. Once cooled, the flan is inverted to serve, allowing the caramel sauce to coat the top

. Flan has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, where it began as a savory egg and cream dish called "flado." Over time, especially in Spain, it evolved into the sweet caramel custard known today, incorporating caramelized sugar and influences from Moorish flavors like citrus and almonds. It became popular throughout Latin America after being brought by Europeans during colonization and remains a beloved dessert with many regional variations

. In summary, flan is a classic custard dessert with caramel sauce, enjoyed worldwide, especially in Latin American and Spanish cuisines, known for its velvety texture and sweet caramel flavor