Flan pâtissier

Flan pâtissier, also known as flan parisién, is a tart consisting of a pastry shell filled with creamy vanilla custard, all together baked until puffed and golden brown. It is similar to the Portuguese pastel de nata or British custard tart but bigger, less buttery, and less flaky.

The recipes for flan pâtissier vary from patisserie to patisserie, but the base is most often shortcrust or puff pastry, and the custard is made with whole milk, heavy cream, cornstarch, and eggs, with the addition of vanilla. Nowadays, vanilla is sometimes replaced with other flavors, like chocolate, coconut, or seasonal fruits.

When done, this tart is cut into triangular slices and most often served as a goûter (afternoon snack). As such, it is very popular with schoolchildren.