Grandma’s Cream Cheese Flan
This Grandma’s Cream Cheese Flan is a rich, silky dessert with a smooth custard texture and a sweet golden caramel topping. The addition of cream cheese makes the flan extra creamy and slightly tangy, turning a classic dessert into something truly special. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or whenever you want a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
For the Caramel
1 cup sugar
¼ cup water
For the Flan
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz / 350 ml) evaporated milk
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk (optional for a softer texture)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Caramel
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and ¼ cup water.
Heat over medium heat without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns golden amber.
Carefully pour the hot caramel into a flan mold or baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly.
Set aside to cool and harden.
2️⃣ Make the Flan Mixture
In a blender add:
Sweetened condensed milk
Evaporated milk
Cream cheese
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Optional ½ cup milk
Blend for 30–40 seconds until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
3️⃣ Pour into the Mold
Pour the blended mixture gently over the hardened caramel in the mold.
4️⃣ Bake the Flan
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place the flan mold inside a larger baking pan.
Fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the mold (this is called a water bath and keeps the flan smooth).
Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5️⃣ Cool and Chill
Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for perfect texture.
6️⃣ Unmold the Flan
Run a thin knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the flan.
Place a wide plate over the mold.
Carefully flip it upside down so the caramel sauce flows over the top.
Serving Tips
Slice and serve cold.
Garnish with:
fresh berries
whipped cream
mint leaves
Tips for Perfect Flan
✔ Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending.
✔ Avoid overbaking; the center should be slightly jiggly.
✔ Always use a water bath to prevent cracks.
✔ Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
