Are you looking for an indulgent dessert that’s both creamy and easy to make? Look no further! The Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan is a delightful treat that brings together the richness of cream cheese with the sweet allure of caramel. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this flan is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dessert in the comfort of your home.
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The Best Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan Recipe
What makes this Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan the best? It’s all about the balance of flavors and the silky-smooth texture. The cream cheese adds a luxurious richness, while the caramel offers that perfect sweet contrast. This recipe is not just easy but also a crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion.
Notes on Ingredients
To achieve the perfect flan, the ingredients must be just right. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- White Sugar and Water: These two simple ingredients create a luscious caramel sauce that forms the base of the flan.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk & Evaporated Milk: These milks give the flan its creamy texture and sweet flavor.
- Eggs: The eggs are essential for setting the custard, providing structure without making it too firm.
- Cream Cheese: The star of this recipe, cream cheese adds a tangy richness that elevates the entire dessert.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flan’s flavor.
How to Make Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Create the Caramel: In a small saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups of white sugar and ¼ cup of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture dissolves into a light brown caramel, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Pour this caramel into a round glass baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
- Blend the Custard: In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Flan: Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the baking dish. Place this dish into a larger, deep baking pan, and add enough water to the pan to reach halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath is crucial for even cooking.
- Bake: Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the custard is set and the top is a light golden brown.
- Chill: Once baked, cover the flan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours, allowing it to cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan
When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Gently run a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it from the dish, then invert it onto a serving platter, letting the caramel drizzle over the top. Slice into portions and serve on dessert plates, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.
How to Store Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan
This flan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent the caramel from drying out.
FAQs About Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan
Can I make this flan ahead of time?
Yes, this flan is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare and chill it a day in advance, and it will be ready to serve when needed.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different but equally delicious texture.
Why did my caramel harden too quickly?
Caramel can harden if it’s left to cool for too long before adding the custard. Make sure to pour the custard mixture over the caramel while it’s still warm.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use full-fat ingredients. However, low-fat versions may work, but the flan might be less creamy.
The Best Super Easy Cream Cheese Flan Recipe
Ingredients
Caramel:
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
- 5 eggs
- 1 8 ounce package cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Heat sugar and water together in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves into a light brown caramel, 8 to 10 minutes. Pour into a round glass baking dish.
- Place condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, cream cheese, and vanilla extract in a blender; blend into a smooth custard. Pour over caramelized sugar in the baking dish.
- Place baking dish in a deep baking pan. Pour in enough water to reach halfway up the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven until custard is set and top is light brown, about 1 hour.
- Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate until cold, 3 to 4 hours.