Spanish Influence (16th–19th Century)  

Leche flan, a rich and creamy custard dessert topped with caramelized sugar, was introduced to the Philippines by the Spaniards during their colonization (1565–1898). It originated from the Spanish "flan de leche", a classic European custard that dates back to the Roman Empire, when Romans used honey instead of sugar.  

During the Spanish period, flan became popular in Filipino households, particularly during fiestas, Christmas, and town celebrations. The abundance of egg yolks in the Philippines, due to egg whites being used for building materials (such as in mortar for churches and houses), contributed to its widespread popularity. Filipinos found a way to utilize egg yolks in cooking, leading to the creamier version of flan known as leche flan.