Cream Cheese Caramel Flan is a decadent dessert that combines a rich cream cheese custard with a smooth caramel topping. This creamy flan recipe is baked gently in a water bath to achieve the perfect silky texture, making it the ideal treat for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re wondering what makes this flan so special, let’s dive into its delightful flavors and textures!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

This creamy caramel flan offers a variety of reasons to fall in love with it:

Unique Flavor: Combining cream cheese with traditional flan creates a rich, tangy flavor.
Elegant Presentation: The glossy caramel topping gives it a sophisticated look.
Family Favorite: It’s loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Easy to Make: Follow our flan with cream cheese recipe for a foolproof dessert.
Comfort Food: This dessert evokes feelings of home and warmth.

With its delicious cream cheese flan dessert nature, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to recipe in many households.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

Gather these items:

1¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup water
8 ounces cream cheese (1 block, room temperature)
5 large eggs

14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Cream Cheese Caramel Flan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the sugar and water to a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves and turns into a golden amber liquid, about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Immediately pour the caramel into an ungreased 9-inch round cake pan (2 inches deep) or two smaller flan pans, tilting to evenly coat the bottom.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a kettle of water to a boil for the water bath.
Step 4: In a mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and mix until fully incorporated. Add sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing well.
Step 5: Pour the cream cheese mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Step 6: Pour the custard over the caramel in the baking pan. Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan and carefully pour the boiling water into the outer pan to a depth of at least 1 inch to create a water bath.

Step 7: Bake for about 60 minutes or until the center is set but still jiggles slightly. If using smaller pans, start checking for doneness after 30 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the flan pan from the water bath and cool on a rack for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 9: To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan, invert onto a rimmed platter to catch caramel drips, slice, and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

Keep these in mind:

Refrigerate for best texture.

Use a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth custard.
Caramel can be made ahead of time.
For an even creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cream cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

Here are some ideas:

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Pair with fresh fruits like berries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle additional caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

To store, keep the flan covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This dessert is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Caramel Flan

What’s the secret to perfect Cream Cheese Caramel Flan?

The secret lies in the water bath method, which helps create a creamy texture and prevents the custard from cracking. Ensuring the ingredients are at room temperature also aids in achieving the best results.

Can I make Cream Cheese Caramel Flan ahead of time?

Absolutely! This flan tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cream Cheese Caramel Flan?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the sugar for the caramel doesn’t burn, and be careful not to overbake the flan, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. Use the water bath method for even baking.

Variations of Cream Cheese Caramel Flan You Can Try

Consider these variations to spice things up:

Chocolate Flan: Add cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a chocolate twist.

Fruit Topping: Top with seasonal fruits or a fruit compote for added flavor.
Spiced Flan: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced version.

With each variation, you can enjoy the rich flavors of this rich caramel flan with cream cheese while exploring new tastes!

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For more information on the health benefits of cream cheese, check out this nutrition guide.

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