flan with cream cheese recipe

flan with cream cheese recipe

The Best flan with cream cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite flan with cream cheese recipe. This classic dessert is a staple in many Latin American countries, and for good reason – it’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious. The addition of cream cheese gives it a tangy twist that I just can’t get enough of.

My kids love helping me make it, and we always have a blast together in the kitchen. There’s something special about watching the mixture transform into a perfectly set dessert, and the smile on their faces when they take their first bite is just the best reward. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a birthday party. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with only a few ingredients and no added sugars, this dessert is actually relatively guilt-free! My family loves it when I serve it at family gatherings, and it’s always a hit.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the technique involved in making it. You need to temper the mixture just right to get the perfect set, which can be a bit tricky. Don’t worry if it doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time – practice makes perfect!

I’ve included some helpful tips below to ensure you get it just right. The history of flan dates back to medieval Spain, where it was made with eggs, sugar, and milk. Over time, different regions added their own twists to create unique variations.

In Mexico, where I learned how to make this recipe from my abuela, they add vanilla and caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Cream Cheese Flan

Cream Cheese Flan

4.5 from 1930 votes

This silky cream cheese flan combines the richness of cream cheese with traditional caramel flan for a decadent dessert. The smooth custard is baked in a water bath to achieve a velvety texture, then inverted onto a plate to reveal a golden caramel sauce.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time50 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Caramel

1 cup white sugar
1/4 cup water

For the Custard

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8 to 10 minutes, then immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round cake pan, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
4In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
5Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6Pour the custard mixture through a fine-mesh strainer directly into the prepared cake pan over the caramel to remove any lumps.
7Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, then place it inside a large roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
8Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the flan is set but still jiggles slightly in the center when gently shaken.
9Remove the cake pan from the water bath, discard the foil, and let it cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
10To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the flan.
11Place a serving plate upside down over the pan, then quickly invert the flan onto the plate, allowing the caramel to flow over the top.
12Slice and serve chilled.

🔧Equipment

9-inch round cake pan
Large roasting pan
Electric mixer
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Fine-mesh strainer
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 135mg🧂Sodium: 210mg🌾Total Carbs: 47g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

For a smoother custard, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. The flan can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; the caramel will continue to liquefy, creating a more abundant sauce.

Watch Video Of How Cream Cheese Flan Works

This flan with cream cheese recipe is truly a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck dinner, I guarantee everyone will love it!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate any leftovers until you’re ready to serve them again. You can even reheat them gently over low heat if needed.

For an added touch of elegance, try topping your flan with fresh fruit or nuts before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal that’s sure to impress your guests.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Flan

Q: What’s the difference between flan and creme brûlée?

A: While both desserts are creamy and rich, flan has a firmer texture due to its egg-based custard base. Creme brûlée, on the other hand, has a softer texture thanks to its cream-based mixture.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese?

A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor and texture of the dessert.

Q: How long does flan typically take to set?

A: The setting time for flan can vary depending on factors like temperature and humidity. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours for flan to set completely.

Q: Can I make flan ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the flan mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: What’s the ideal temperature for baking flan?

A: The ideal baking temperature for flan is between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C). A water bath will help maintain an even temperature throughout the baking process.

Q: Can I substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk?

A: While you can use half-and-half as a substitute for heavy cream, milk will not provide the same rich texture. If you choose to use milk, keep in mind that your flan might not have as much body.

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