Quesillo is a classic Venezuelan dessert similar to flan, known for its smooth texture and rich caramel flavor. It is made with eggs, milk and sugar, then baked in a caramel-lined mold until set. The name comes from its slightly airy texture, which resembles cheese when sliced. It is commonly served chilled and is a staple dessert for celebrations and family meals.
😌 Difficulty: Easy
⏱️ Preparation time: 15 min
🔥 Cooking time: 50 min
⏳ Total time: 1 hour 5 min
👥 Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 150 g sugar (for caramel)
- 4 eggs
- 400 ml milk
- 120 g sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat 150 g sugar in a pan until it melts and turns golden caramel.
- Pour caramel into a baking mold and swirl to coat the bottom.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar and vanilla.
- Pour the mixture into the caramel-lined mold.
- Place the filled mold inside a larger baking dish and carefully pour hot water into the outer dish until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the mold. This gentle water bath helps the quesillo cook evenly and gives it a smooth, creamy texture without cracking.
- Bake at 180°C for about 50 minutes until set. Keep the mold in the water bath for the entire baking time, about 50 minutes, until the quesillo is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for a few hours.
- Turn upside down onto a plate before serving.
SpinThatCuisine Tip 💡
Let the quesillo chill fully before unmolding – this helps it hold its shape and gives a cleaner, glossy finish.