About the Chocoflan (Impossible Pudding)
The Chocoflan, also known as the Impossible Pudding, is a delightful Mexican dessert that combines the smoothness of flan with the rich, chocolate intensity of a cake all in one dish. Its charm lies in the magic of its layered appearance: during baking, the flan seamlessly infuses the chocolate cake while remaining perfectly separated, crowned with a glossy caramel.
What makes this dessert truly special is that it doesn’t require an oven. Using a steamer or a large pot with a rack is the homemade secret to enjoying this treat without specialized equipment. It’s the most accessible and traditional way to prepare this dessert in many Mexican kitchens where ovens aren’t always readily available.
Tips for a Perfect Chocoflan
- Use aluminum foil well-sealed to prevent water from entering the flan.
- Keep the heat on medium-low: too high might “boil” the flan.
- Infuse the flan with orange zest or cinnamon for a personal touch.
Why is it worth the effort?
The no-oven Chocoflan is the great democratizer of spectacular desserts: anyone can prepare it. Its taste matches that of a conventional oven-baked Chocoflan, with a silky flan and a moist, intense chocolate cake. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or simply a self-care treat on the weekend. Moreover, learning to use a steamer or a pot for baking is a return to the roots of Mexican cooking: ingenious, simple, and generous.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Chocoflan? Chocoflan, or the Impossible Pudding, is a Mexican dessert combining flan and chocolate cake into one dish.
- Why is it called “Impossible”? The dessert’s charm comes from the way flan seamlessly infuses into the chocolate cake, creating distinct layers.
- Can I make Chocoflan without an oven? Yes, using a steamer or a large pot with a rack is the traditional method for making Chocoflan without an oven.
- What are some tips for a perfect Chocoflan? Use well-sealed aluminum foil, keep the heat on medium-low, and infuse the flan with orange zest or cinnamon for added flavor.
