Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Coconut Flan with Berry Sauce (Brazilian Manjar Branco) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 31 reviews

This traditional Brazilian Manjar Branco is a luscious coconut flan served with a vibrant homemade berry sauce. Silky and creamy, this flan is thickened with cornstarch and sweetened condensed milk, infused with fragrant coconut milk, and perfectly complemented by a tangy, fresh berry sauce. Ideal for festive occasions or a refreshing dessert, it requires no baking and sets beautifully in the refrigerator for a smooth, pudding-like texture.

  • Total Time: 8 hours 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Flan Ingredients

  • 6 ¾ cups (1.5 L) whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups (300 mL) coconut milk
  • 2 cans (28 oz / about 790800g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 110 g (about 7/8 cup) cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt

Berry Sauce Ingredients

  • 450 g (about 3 cups) mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime (or lemon) juice
  • Pinch of salt

Garnish

  • Fresh berries
  • Grated coconut

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the cornstarch: In a large saucepan, whisk the whole milk and cornstarch until completely smooth and free of lumps, ensuring a silky base for the flan.
  2. Cook the flan mixture: Add the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Cook over medium to medium-low heat, stirring constantly for 12–18 minutes, until the mixture thickens, becomes glossy, bubbles gently, and reaches a pudding-like consistency.
  3. Prepare the mold and pour: Lightly rinse a 10-cup mold, bundt pan, or pudding mold with water and pour out excess, leaving a thin moisture film. Carefully pour the hot flan mixture into the mold and gently tap the mold on the counter several times to release any trapped air bubbles.
  4. Cool and chill: Let the flan cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap pressed gently against the surface to prevent a skin forming, then refrigerate until fully set—ideally for 6-8 hours or overnight.
  5. Make the berry sauce: In a small saucepan, combine mixed berries, sugar, lime or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Strain the sauce: Pour the berry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing with a spoon or spatula to extract maximum sauce while discarding seeds and solids. Allow the sauce to cool completely before serving.
  7. Unmold the flan: Once chilled, place a serving platter atop the mold and invert confidently. Lift the mold gently to release the flan. To ease release, briefly wrap the mold’s exterior with a warm towel if needed.
  8. Serve and garnish: Spoon the cooled berry sauce over the flan, letting it cascade down the sides. Garnish with fresh berries and grated coconut for a vibrant, festive presentation. Serve chilled, with extra berry sauce on the side for individual servings.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure constant stirring during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching.
  • Using a bundt or pudding mold with non-stick properties can ease unmolding.
  • Berry sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
  • Fresh or frozen berries can be used depending on availability; if frozen, thaw partially before cooking.
  • Pressing plastic wrap directly on the flan surface prevents skin formation and keeps texture smooth.
  • Serving chilled enhances the flan’s firmness and refreshing taste.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Brazilian
  • Diet: Vegetarian