Recipe: Honey & Apple Flan

Autumn whispers its enchantment through the falling leaves and the golden hues of the setting sun. To celebrate this season, we present a delectable Honey-Glazed Apple Flan, where the rich, amber nectar of honey takes centre stage. With a harmonious blend of spices and seasonal fruits, this flan is the perfect embodiment of the cozy spirit of autumn.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2-3 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Filling:

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup honey

• 1/2 cup double cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

For the Topping:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

For the Crust:

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, honey, and salt. Pulse to mix.

2. Add the cold, cubed butter, and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

3. With the food processor running, drizzle in the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it briefly, and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

5. Preheat your oven to 175°C.

6. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch flan dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

For the Filling:

7. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, honey, cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and spices until well combined.

For the Topping:

8. In a separate bowl, toss the apple slices with honey and cinnamon until evenly coated.

Pour the honey filling into the prepared tart crust.

9. Arrange the honey-glazed apple slices on top of the filling in an attractive pattern.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set, and the top is lightly golden.

11. Let the flan cool before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

This Honey-Glazed Autumnal Flan is a celebration of nature's bounty and the golden glow of honey's embrace. Enjoy it as a dessert or a comforting treat, accompanied by a cup of warm tea or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It's the perfect way to savour the flavours of Autumn and the sweetness of honey in one delightful dish.