Creamy, rich, and delectable, Cheese Flan is a dessert that captivates the senses. The combination of cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and a mouthwatering caramel topping creates a luxurious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking to indulge your sweet tooth, this Cheese Flan is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this classic dessert!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5-15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 6g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 40g per serving
- Fat: 12g per serving
- Fiber: 0g per serving
- Sugar: 30g per serving
- Sodium: 150mg per serving
Why Make This Cheese Flan
Cheese Flan is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. The creamy texture glides effortlessly on the palate, while the sweet caramel adds a delightful contrast. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers a stunning presentation, making it a perfect recipe to showcase your baking prowess. Once chilled, the flan can be easily sliced, allowing you to serve it elegantly to your guests. Its versatility allows you to serve it at various gatherings, from casual family dinners to sophisticated celebrations.
How to Make Cheese Flan
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of cream cheese
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can of evaporated milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your flan will bake evenly and thoroughly.
### Step 2: Making Caramel
In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and turns a beautiful golden brown. Be careful not to burn it! Once it’s ready, quickly pour the caramel into a flan mold, tilting the mold to coat the bottom evenly. Allow it to set while you prepare the filling.
### Step 3: Mixing the Flan Mixture
In a blender, combine 1 cup of cream cheese, the can of sweetened condensed milk, the can of evaporated milk, 4 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no chunks of cream cheese.
### Step 4: Baking in the Water Bath
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the set caramel in the mold. Next, place the flan mold in a larger baking dish and add hot water to create a water bath. This gentle cooking method helps the flan to cook evenly and prevents cracking.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the flan is set. You can check this by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.
### Step 5: Cooling and Chilling
After baking, remove the flan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight) to allow it to set completely.
### Step 6: Serving
To serve, run a knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the flan. Invert it onto a plate carefully. Let the caramel sauce drizzle down the sides, creating a stunning presentation.
How to Serve Cheese Flan
Cheese Flan pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like berries or kiwi for a refreshing contrast. For an added touch, consider sprinkling some toasted coconut or whipped cream on top. It’s perfect as an after-dinner treat or a sweet surprise in a packed lunch!
How to Store Cheese Flan
To store Cheese Flan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, due to its creamy nature, it is best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cheese Flan
- Preventing Cracks: Ensure that the water in the baking dish is hot and not boiling to create a gentle heat that prevents the flan from cracking.
- Make Ahead: Cheese Flan can be made a day in advance. Giving it time to chill enhances its flavor and allows it to set perfectly.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flan, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk by half and add a splash of regular cream to maintain the creamy texture.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Cheese Flan: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolaty twist.
- Coconut Cheese Flan: Incorporate shredded coconut into the mixture for a tropical flavor.
- Coffee Flan: Add 1/2 cup of brewed espresso or strong coffee to the mixture for a delicious coffee-infused flan.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use non-fat milk instead of whole milk?
While you can substitute non-fat milk, the flan will be less creamy, impacting the final texture and flavor. -
How long should I bake the flan?
Bake the flan for 50-60 minutes or until it’s set in the center. An inserted knife should come out clean when done. -
What’s the best way to tell if my flan is set?
The flan should jiggle slightly but not appear liquid in the center. A knife should come out clean when inserted. -
Can I freeze Cheese Flan?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. -
Why did my flan have a grainy texture?
A grainy texture can result from over-blending the ingredients or from cooking at too high a temperature. Blend just until smooth and follow the baking instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Making Cheese Flan is a wonderful way to treat yourself and others to a creamy, sweet delicacy that embodies comfort and indulgence. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, this dessert is not only easy to make but also incredibly rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and delight in creating this beautiful dessert!
