What is quesillo made of?

Traditional quesillo is made using sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and caramelized sugar. These ingredients create a rich custard with a sweet, creamy taste. The caramel topping forms the glossy layer on top once the dessert is flipped out of the mold.

How is quesillo different from flan?

While both quesillo and flan are custard-based desserts, the key differences lie in their ingredients and texture. Quesillo typically includes whole eggs and condensed milk, which result in a denser, creamier consistency. Flan, on the other hand, is usually made with just milk and egg yolks, making it lighter and silkier.

What countries make quesillo?

Quesillo is popular in Venezuela and Nicaragua , though the term means different things in each. In Venezuela, it’s a classic caramel custard dessert. In Nicaragua and Mexico, however, “quesillo” refers to different forms of cheese or savory snacks. The dessert version is most associated with Venezuelan cuisine.

Is quesillo hard to make at home?

Not at all! With just a few ingredients and a little patience, anyone can make quesillo at home. The most important steps are using a water bath for baking, blending ingredients gently to avoid bubbles, and allowing the dessert to chill thoroughly before serving. Our step-by-step guide in Part 3 covers it all.

Can I make vegan quesillo?

Yes, you can! By substituting ingredients like coconut condensed milk, almond milk, and silken tofu in place of eggs and dairy, you can craft a vegan quesillo that still has a creamy, sweet, and custard-like texture. Just follow the vegan recipe outlined in Part 6 for delicious results.

How to store quesillo properly?

Always refrigerate quesillo after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. It stays fresh for 4–5 days in the fridge. Freezing is possible but may compromise the texture. For best flavor, consume within 3 days of making.

Quesillo: The Best Guide to Making This Creamy Classic (2025)

Name: Quesillo: The Silky-Smooth Dessert You’ll Fall in Love With
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar (for caramel); 4 large eggs; 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: Lime zest

Description

Learn how to make Venezuelan quesillo, a silky caramel custard dessert. With just a few ingredients, this traditional treat is perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup sugar (for caramel)
4 large eggs
1 can (14 oz) condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Lime zest

Instructions

Prepare the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until golden brown. Pour into the mold, swirling to coat the bottom.
Blend the custard: Combine eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and optional lime zest in a blender until smooth.
Assemble and bake: Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the mold. Place the mold in a larger baking dish with hot water (water bath). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes or until set.
Cool and serve: Allow quesillo to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Invert onto a plate before serving to reveal the caramel glaze.

Notes

Use a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent cracks.
Customize the flavors with cinnamon, coconut milk, or rum.
Best served chilled for the perfect texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Venezuelan

Keywords: Venezuelan quesillo, caramel custard, traditional dessert, quesillo recipe, Venezuelan flan, easy caramel custard recipe