Cheese Flan: A Silken Delight

There’s something utterly enchanting about the combination of creamy cheese and caramelized sugar, and that’s precisely what you’ll find in this velvety Cheese Flan. This dessert is more than indulgence; it’s an experience of rich flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. As your fork pierces the glossy surface, the luscious flan reveals its silky interior that melts in your mouth, perfectly complimented by the sweet, sticky caramel glaze that dances delicately around the edges. It’s a delightful treat that brings smiles and sweet memories to every gathering.

This Cheese Flan is ideal for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or whenever you need a little indulgence to brighten your day. It’s a dessert that appeals to both children and adults, making it a perfect finale for a special meal or a leisurely weekend brunch.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 228
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 10g

Why Make This Recipe

Making Cheese Flan is an enjoyable process that results in a dessert bursting with flavor. The lovely aroma of caramel wafting through your kitchen instantly creates comforting vibes. It’s a dish that requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet it delivers a stunning presentation. Whether for a dinner party or an after-dinner treat, this flan stands out as a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

How to Make Cheese Flan

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients/Substitutions:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth
• Lemon zest for a hint of freshness
• Nutmeg for a seasonal touch

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns golden brown, stirring constantly. Pour the caramel into a round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
3. Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
4. Combine: Pour the mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
5. Create a Water Bath: Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan and fill the larger pan with water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish.
6. Bake: Bake for about 60 minutes or until set. A knife inserted should come out clean.
7. Cool: Allow to cool, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
8. Serve: To serve, run a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert onto a serving plate and watch as the caramel cascades down the sides.

Baking Tips:

• Don’t Overmix: Blend just enough to combine, avoiding a bubbly texture.
• Test Doneness: Check in the center with a knife. If it comes out clean, your flan is ready!

How to Serve

Cheese Flan is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by pairing it with fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea, or serve it warmly, toasted with a drizzle of honey.

How to Store

• Room Temperature: Best enjoyed the same day; can be left at room temp for up to 3 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Expert Tips

• Choose the Right Cheese: For a smoother texture, use full-fat cream cheese.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to infuse flavors like orange or lavender to create a unique twist.

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute cream cheese with blended silken tofu and use almond or coconut milk.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add ground cinnamon directly to the flan mixture for a warm spiced flavor.
• Gluten-Free Swap: This recipe is inherently gluten-free, so enjoy without worry!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other fruits? Yes, fresh fruits like mango or berries can be added.
• Why is it dry/dense? Overbaking or incorrect ratio of ingredients can lead to a dense consistency.
• What can I do with leftovers? Use them in parfaits or as a filling for cakes.
• Can I use frozen ingredients? It’s recommended to use fresh ingredients for the best texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cheese Flan is more than just a dessert—it’s a shared experience that brings people together through its creamy richness and comforting flavors. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful treat, and embrace the compliments that flow your way. We’d love to hear about your flan-making adventures or any unique twists you put on this classic recipe! Happy baking!