Crustless French Custard Pie ( flan parisien)

Crustless French Custard Pie ( flan parisien) is a easy French recipe that serves 6. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by French Cooking Academy on YouTube.

Prep: 45 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr 35 min

Cost: $6.05 total, $1.01 per serving

Ingredients

  • 6 pieces Egg Yolks (approx 100 g total, separated from whites)
  • 100 g Caster Sugar (fine granulated sugar)
  • 1 piece Vanilla Bean (split lengthwise and seeds scraped)
  • 250 ml Heavy Whipping Cream (cold)
  • 250 ml Whole Milk (cold)
  • 50 g Corn Flour (for thickening (cornstarch))
  • 20 g Unsalted Butter (for greasing the pan)
  • 1 sheet Parchment Paper (cut to fit the baking dish)
  • 1 sheet Plastic Wrap (to cover custard while cooling, contact method)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking dish

    Rub the inside of the 20 cm tart tin with a thin layer of softened butter. Line the bottom with a cut piece of parchment paper, allowing the paper to overhang the edges for easy removal.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Separate egg yolks

    Crack the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Transfer the yolks to a clean mixing bowl; reserve the whites for another use (e.g., meringues).

    Time: PT3M

  3. Whisk yolks with sugar

    Add the caster sugar to the yolks and whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and slightly frothy (the "blanching" stage).

    Time: PT5M

  4. Incorporate corn flour

    Sift the corn flour over the yolk‑sugar mixture and fold it in gently until fully incorporated, creating a smooth, thick batter.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Heat milk, cream and vanilla

    In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and the scraped vanilla seeds (plus the pod for extra flavor). Heat over medium‑high, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just comes to a boil.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 150°C

  6. Combine hot liquid with yolk mixture

    Place a fine mesh sieve over the yolk‑flour bowl and slowly pour the hot milk‑cream mixture through, whisking continuously to prevent curdling. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Cook the custard

    Return the saucepan to medium heat. Whisk constantly until the custard thickens, comes to a gentle boil, and continues to boil for 4–5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon and have a glossy sheen.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: 150°C

  8. Cool and cover

    Transfer the hot custard to a clean container. Press a sheet of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to eliminate a skin. Let it rest at room temperature until cool (about 10 minutes).

    Time: PT10M

  9. Smooth the custard

    Give the cooled custard a quick whisk to restore a creamy consistency.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Fill the prepared tin

    Pour the custard into the butter‑greased, parchment‑lined tart tin. Smooth the top with a spatula.

    Time: PT2M

  11. Bake

    Place the tin in a pre‑heated oven (300°F / 150°C, non‑fan‑forced). Bake for 30–45 minutes, or until the surface turns a light golden color and a thin crust forms.

    Time: PT35M

    Temperature: 150°C

  12. Cool and serve

    Remove the flan from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free (uses corn flour), Contains dairy

Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Butter

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Crustless French Custard Pie ( flan parisien)

Recipe by French Cooking Academy

A tribute to the legendary Paul Bocuse, this classic French Parisian custard pie (flan pâtissier) is made without a crust for ultimate simplicity. Silky vanilla‑infused pastry cream is baked until a thin golden top forms, then chilled and served. Perfect for any occasion and easy enough for home cooks.

EasyFrenchServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
47m
Prep
47m
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 45m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.05
Total cost
$1.01
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whisk yolks with sugar until pale (blanching)
  • Heat milk and cream with vanilla to a boil
  • Cook custard on the stove until it thickens and boils for 4–5 minutes
  • Cover custard with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin formation
  • Bake at 150°C until a thin golden crust forms

Safety Warnings

  • Hot milk and cream can cause severe burns; handle with care.
  • Steam from the boiling custard can cause scalds; keep face away from the pot.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Flan Pâtissier in French cuisine?

A

Flan pâtissier, also known as Parisian custard pie, is a classic French dessert that dates back to the 19th century. It was traditionally served in bakeries and homes as a simple yet elegant way to showcase high‑quality eggs, cream, and vanilla, embodying the French love for refined, buttery custards.

cultural
Q

How does Flan Pâtissier fit into the broader tradition of French pastry?

A

Flan pâtissier is part of the French "pâtisserie" family, sitting alongside tarts, éclairs, and mille‑feuille. Its simplicity highlights the French principle that great flavor comes from a few premium ingredients, making it a staple in both everyday meals and festive occasions.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of Flan Pâtissier exist in France?

A

In Provence, a hint of orange blossom water is sometimes added; in the Loire Valley, a thin layer of almond frangipane may be placed beneath the custard. However, the classic Parisian version remains crustless and pure vanilla, as demonstrated in this recipe.

cultural
Q

During which French celebrations is Flan Pâtissier traditionally served?

A

Flan pâtissier is commonly enjoyed at family gatherings, birthday parties, and as a light dessert after a hearty French dinner. It is also featured in pâtisserie shop windows during the summer months when fresh eggs and vanilla are abundant.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Flan Pâtissier?

A

The authentic recipe calls for fresh egg yolks, caster (fine) sugar, high‑fat heavy cream, whole milk, cornflour (or traditional wheat flour), and a real vanilla bean. Butter for greasing and parchment paper are optional but traditional for a smooth release.

cultural
Q

What other French dishes pair well with Flan Pâtissier?

A

Flan pâtissier pairs beautifully with a cup of black coffee, a glass of sweet Sauternes, or a light fruit compote such as poached pears. It also complements savory French meals like coq au vin or ratatouille as a refreshing finish.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Flan Pâtissier?

A

Common errors include over‑whisking the custard after it thickens (which can incorporate air), failing to cover the custard while it cools (causing a skin), and baking at too high a temperature, which burns the top before the interior sets.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use corn flour instead of wheat flour for thickening?

A

Corn flour (cornstarch) provides a clear, glossy thickening without adding any wheat flavor, resulting in a smoother, more delicate custard that stays glossy after baking, which is traditional for the Parisian flan.

technical
Q

Can I make Flan Pâtissier ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the custard can be prepared a day ahead. After baking, let it cool, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to three days and can be served chilled or gently warmed before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel French Cooking Academy specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel French Cooking Academy specializes in teaching classic French cooking techniques, from fundamental sauces and pastries to iconic dishes, with a focus on clear, step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel French Cooking Academy's approach to French cuisine differ from other cooking channels?

A

French Cooking Academy emphasizes respect for traditional French methods while adapting recipes for everyday kitchens, often highlighting the cultural stories behind each dish, unlike many channels that prioritize speed over technique.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

French Cream Puffs with Vanilla Custard and Whipped Cream
23

French Cream Puffs with Vanilla Custard and Whipped Cream

Delicate choux pastry shells filled with silky vanilla custard and light whipped cream. A classic French dessert that looks impressive but is doable at home with a piping bag and a few simple steps.

4 hrs 12 minServes 8$3
French
Frank's Crispy Custardy French Toast
423

Frank's Crispy Custardy French Toast

A step‑by‑step guide to Frank Proto’s signature French toast – thick, slightly stale bread soaked in a rich orange‑nutmeg custard, pan‑fried in butter until golden and crisp, finished with maple syrup, powdered sugar and a pat of salted butter.

1 hr 12 minServes 3$63
American
Lemon Pie with Silky Custard Filling
15

Lemon Pie with Silky Custard Filling

A bright, tangy lemon pie featuring a smooth lemon‑custard filling piped in a decorative swirl over a tender, buttery cake base. Perfect for lemon lovers who want a show‑stopping dessert with a silky texture.

1 hr 38 minServes 8$3
American
French Apple Pie Recette Facile et Rapide
5

French Apple Pie Recette Facile et Rapide

A simplified French twist on the classic American Apple Pie using store‑bought puff pastry, caramelized golden apples, brown sugar, butter and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dessert.

1 hr 22 minServes 8$37
American
The Crispiest French Fry Recipe! 🤯🍟
7

The Crispiest French Fry Recipe! 🤯🍟

These ultra‑crispy fries use a simple secret—cornstarch and a double‑fry technique—to achieve a golden exterior and fluffy interior. Follow Chef Boyd Brown III's step‑by‑step method for restaurant‑quality fries at home.

1 hr 46 minServes 4$7
American
Traditional Pâté de Pâques Recipe (Authentic French Easter Pie)
2

Traditional Pâté de Pâques Recipe (Authentic French Easter Pie)

A traditional Easter starter from central France. A golden puff‑pastry crust encases a moist pork terrine with whole hard‑boiled eggs, aromatic shallots, parsley and rehydrated forest mushrooms. Easy to assemble, bake, and serve with a simple salad.

14 hrs 16 minServes 6$20
French